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Description

The kawakawa balm recipe featured in the Te Ao Māori badge resource, under clause 22 'Rongoā.'

Resources

1 cup olive oil or coconut oil
10 Kawakawa leaves (freshly picked)
3 Tbsp grated beeswax
Thermos with lid
2 x pots (one larger than the other)
Wooden or stainless-steel mixing spoon
Small jars

Instructions

The first step in the process is to harvest the kawakawa sustainably and according to tikanga. The aoteamade.co.nz website shares the following advice for harvesting:
“We do a karakia before harvesting. Carefully cut the branches with sharp secateurs or a knife, being careful not to tear the plant. We only take as much as we will use, without damaging the plant.
Harvest only from north-facing plants because they get the most sunlight, so they grow back faster. Only take a small quantity from any one plant so that the plant does not become stressed. Look for fresh leaves.
A mid-point between extra-glossy and matt is best. See if the dark green colour shines through the leaf!
Often leaves have been nibbled by the looper caterpillar.
Try another bush - don’t lose heart! If it is growing in a certain area, there will be others around”.

Instructions
Week 1:
1. Place the kawakawa leaves in a thermos. Gently heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat for about one minute. You want the oil to be almost steaming, not overly hot.
2. Pour the oil over the leaves, and then screw the top on your thermos. Infuse for at least 8 hours. Once cool, you can remove the kawakawa leaves.

Week 2:
3. Combine the infused oil and beeswax together over a double boiler. Stir until melted together.
4. Pour the mixture into tins or small jars, and allow to set, about 20 minutes. This recipe makes about 4 small jars, and it can be increased to make more. It would make a lovely gift for a visiting guest speaker, or family members.

(Our unit will make this over two weeks)

Tags

• Rongoa
• Te Ao Maori

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