Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed EntryFR · EN
Pohutukawa
Metrosideros excelsa
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Traditional use is poorly documented scientifically outside the historical Māori context: caution is advised. Avoid self-preparation for internal use without the advice of a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, due to insufficient safety data. Reserved for occasional external use for non-expert preparations; consult a specialist for any internal use.
Decoction — Bark
Bark decoction as gargle
Traditionally, a piece of bark was simmered in water for a long time to extract the tannins, then the cooled liquid was used as a gargle. This preparation requires professional guidance before any use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Compress — Young shoots and bark
Soothing compress for the skin
Young shoots and crushed bark were applied as a poultice to irritated areas of the skin. It is recommended to test on a small area and consult in case of doubt. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Sourcing the plant
Pohutukawa grows naturally on the coasts of the North Island of New Zealand; outside Oceania, it is mainly found planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks with mild climates.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
The bark and young shoots were traditionally harvested outside the flowering period, between autumn and austral winter, to preserve the tree's vigor.
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