Health properties
Kūmarahou (Pomaderris Kumeraho) has many benefits including:
Expectorant / Respiratory support — long-standing use for coughs, bronchial congestion and easing mucus.
Diaphoretic — used to promote sweating during fevers to support recovery.
Anti-inflammatory — topical and internal uses aimed at reducing inflammation in respiratory passages and on skin.
Antimicrobial / antiseptic — traditionally used on wounds and skin infections; some extracts show activity against microbes in lab studies.
Wound‑healing / soothing — used as washes or poultices to cleanse and soothe minor wounds and skin irritations.
Tonic — used traditionally as a general restorative during convalescence.
Traditional use (Māori)
Widely used in rongoā for respiratory complaints: decoctions and infusions of stems and flowers for coughs, colds, bronchial congestion and to promote sweating.
Used as a topical wash or poultice for wounds, skin infections and to soothe sores.
Employed as a general tonic to support recovery from colds/flu and to ease chest congestion.
Preparation methods: boiled decoctions of stems/flowers, warm washes, topical compresses, and inhalation of steam from infusions.
Physical / botanical properties
Growth habit: woody shrub native to New Zealand, forming dense stands in wetlands and open areas.
Flowers/leaves: clusters of pale yellow, daisy-like flowers; stems and leaves often have a soft/hairy texture.
Organoleptic: mild, herbal, slightly bitter/botanical when brewed as a decoction.
Common product forms: dried flower/stem for decoction or infusion, tinctures, infused oils, topical extracts, and concentrates.
Metaphysical / energetic properties
Cleansing and purifying: used in spiritual baths and steamings to clear stagnation and refresh the energetic body.
Respiratory/throat support (energetic): associated with opening the throat and facilitating clear expression and breath.
Restorative/tonic: used in rituals to restore vitality and support recovery after illness.
Connection to whenua and healing lineage: used in ceremonial contexts to honor place-based healing traditions.
