Rongōā Māori plant directory
Ngā rākau rongōā — traditional plant medicines used in Māori healing. Māori names, medicinal parts, uses, and preparation methods.
Rongōā is a living taonga — knowledge held by whānau, hapū, and iwi, passed through generations with karakia and tikanga. This directory is an educational reference only; it does not replace guidance from a qualified rongōā practitioner or registered health professional.
Educational use only
This information is not medical advice. Using these plants without expert knowledge or supervision can be dangerous and potentially fatal. Always consult a registered medical professional for health concerns.
Holistic healing
Rongōā Māori addresses taha wairua (spiritual), taha hinengaro (mental/emotional), taha tinana (physical), and taha whānau (family) wellbeing. Karakia accompanying collection and preparation is integral to healing.
High-risk plants
Tūtu, Rangiora, Kōwhai seeds, Karaka (raw kernels), Poroporo (unripe), Ngaio (internal use). Misidentification or wrong preparation can cause organ failure and death.
Tikanga
Never harvest without permission of tāngata whenua. Acknowledge the mauri of the plant. Harvest selectively and sustainably. Seek a qualified rongōā practitioner for traditional protocols.
Drawn from published references including Ngā Rauropi Whakaoranga (Manaaki Whenua — Landcare Research), Electronic Flora of New Zealand, Health NZ rongoÄ Māori guidance, and Te Papa collections. Key texts: Riley, M. Māori Healing and Herbal (1994) • Te Rangi HÄ«roa. The Coming of the Māori (1949) • Durie et al. Traditional Māori Healing (1993) • Lange, R. May the People Live (1999) • Tipene-Leach, H. (1998).
| Māori name | Common name | Scientific name | Parts used | Medicinal uses | Preparation | Kai | References | NRW | Notes |
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