Kawakawa balm has a wide range of applications and has been well studied as a natural treatment for eczema and psoriasis. Its powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it highly effective at relieving rashes, swelling, irritation, and more persistent skin conditions.

Kawakawa balm is traditionally used to support the natural healing of:

• Eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis
• General skin repair from everyday wear and tear
• Bumps, bruises, inflammation, and broken capillaries
• Chapped or weathered lips
• Nappy rash and other skin irritations
• Burns and abrasions
• Joint pain and muscular discomfort
• Dry skin
• Bites and general irritations

Kawakawa’s strong antimicrobial properties help inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it useful in treating infection and inflammation. Its natural analgesic qualities also help soothe sore muscles and relieve pain.

We make our healing kawakawa balm using kawakawa-infused sweet almond oil, mānuka oil, and beeswax. Below is a simple recipe to make your own. This recipe yields approximately 500 grams of balm.

Recipe: What You’ll Need

• 2 stainless steel pots (5L or larger)
• 1 sieve
• 1 thermometer
• 1 wooden or stainless steel spoon
• 1 funnel
• Clean jars (60ml–500ml)

Ingredients

• 500g freshly picked kawakawa leaves (or a generous handful)
• 70g beeswax
• 500g sweet almond, coconut, or olive oil
• Optional: a few drops of essential oil such as mānuka oil (for scent or added therapeutic benefit)

Method

1. Harvest kawakawa leaves sustainably (see tikanga below).
2. Place the leaves in a stainless steel pot and cover with oil. Steep for one week using the cold infusion method.
3. After one week, gently heat the oil and leaves at approximately 70°C for one hour (heat extraction). If short on time, you may skip the cold infusion, though the extract will be less potent.
4. Strain the oil through a sieve into a second pot, removing all plant material.
5. Return the oil to gentle heat, add beeswax, and stir occasionally until fully melted. Add essential oils at this stage if desired.
6. Pour into jars using a funnel and allow to set overnight with lids on.

How to Harvest Kawakawa Sustainably (Tikanga)

We begin with a karakia before harvesting. Cut branches carefully with sharp secateurs or a knife, avoiding damage to the plant. Take only what you need and never strip a single plant.

Harvest from north-facing plants where possible, as they receive more sunlight and recover more quickly. Choose healthy leaves — not too glossy and not dull — and look for deep green colour. If leaves show insect damage, simply move on to another plant.

How to Use Kawakawa Balm

Healing Kawakawa Balm is extremely versatile. Scoop a small amount onto your finger and massage gently into the affected area. Apply as often as needed.

Our multi-purpose kawakawa balm is available online, alongside our wider range of therapeutic skincare inspired by rongoā Māori.

Browse our skincare range →