The tea tree has been traditionally used by the new zealand maori for a variety of complaints internally and externally. Vapour baths were used to treat lumbago, rheumatism, and ease childbirth. Leaves, seeds and bark after preparation were also used as poultices and ointments for ringworm, burns and scalds, sprains, wounds lesions from venereal diseases, eczema among other things.
Today, the honey made from tea tree flowers is established to be anti-bacterial, and used in hospitals for such things as leg ulcers and slow healing wounds. Successfully used for bacterial and fungal infections, slow healing ulcers and sores, wounds, candida and athletes foot. As well as being anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, it has astringent properties owing to the high tannin levels which helps reduce inflammation. When taking leaves, flowers, roots or bark from any plant in the ngahere there are particular ways and times to gather without damage to the plant and optimising the active elements within the gathered material. Causing no harm to the plant or the ngahere is a given. Our main obligation is to care for the plants and the earth. It is recommended to consult with a local rongoa maori practitioner.
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