Medicinal Uses

The vapour formed when the leaves were boiled in water was used as an inhalation treatment for headaches and 'stuffy heads'. Heated, bruised leaves were applied directly to the head, thus stemming the headache. The natural properties found in heated koromiko leaves were also used to treat diarrhoea, kidney infections and bladder disorders. The young leaf tips can be chewed for diarrhoea and dysentery. It was used extensively in the Second World War for this purpose. Dried leaves were sent to New Zealand soldiers overseas to cure dysentery, which proved very effective. The active ingredient is phenolic glycocide. The active ingredient is phenolic glycocide. Leaves can be used as a pack on babies for skin sores. Koromiko can also be used for ulcers, sores, headaches, kidney and bladder troubles, sexually transmitted diseases and British cholera. Because this plant was so highly regarded for its medicinal purposes, the leaves used to be stored in gourds for later use.