Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Entry

Sophora microphylla

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: The Sophora genus contains quinolizidine alkaloids (including cytisine), potentially toxic even at low doses; any internal use must be supervised by a qualified professional. Never use without the advice of an herbalist or physician experienced with New Zealand plants, particularly for internal use. Strictly contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as in children, due to toxic risk. Avoid prolonged or high-dose use; seeds and bark of other Sophora species have caused documented poisonings.

Decoction — Bark

Bark decoction for external use

Gently boil a piece of dried bark in water for approximately fifteen minutes, then allow to cool before use as a wash or compress on the skin. This preparation was reserved for traditional external use and should not be ingested without expert advice. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Poultice — Bark

Soothing poultice

The crushed and moistened bark was applied directly to the skin as a poultice, renewed once or twice daily according to Māori oral tradition. Strictly reserved for external use and short duration. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Kōwhai grows naturally in New Zealand, often near waterways; it is sometimes cultivated elsewhere as an ornamental tree, but its bark is rarely available in herbalist shops outside its native range.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

The bark is traditionally harvested in late austral winter or early spring, before the tree flowers.

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