Karamu is very important spiritually for Māori and is used in many ceremonies, including healing ceremonies.
It was used for tools and furniture, as well as for medicine. The berries are edible, and thought to enhance cognitive function. Both berries and leaves were used in medicine.
Karamu is native to New Zealand and can be found all over.
Traditionally, medicinally, it has been used for kidney, bowel, menstruation, womb and bladder infections, diabetes, cuts, ulcers, wounds, eczema, bruises, scabies, healthy skin support, digestion and to ease vomiting. It may also support local hormonal activity. Karamu can also support the body’s normal response for temperature balance, so can be useful for fevers and for hyperhidrosis.
When foraging for herbs, take only what you need and leave the rest, so the plant can recover as quickly as possible.
It’s not meant to be complicated to be well, nor is it meant to be expensive.