Kawakawa (Macropiper Excelsum) is at the heart of many Still Milly creations and for good reason.
Kawakawa is highly valued in rongoā Māori, used both internally and externally to support a wide range of physical ailments as well as spiritual healing. More than medicine, it carries deep wairua. Traditionally, and still today, it is woven into many key moments of life. Kawakawa has been used during the birth and naming of children, in blessings, and in times of loss, where it is worn by loved ones in mourning.
Kawakawa can be identified by the heart shaped rau (leaves) which are often riddled with holes made by looper caterpillars. It is these rau that are said to be best for rongoā.
This remarkable rākau contains the plant active myristicin, which is known for its anti‑inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities. It’s the hero ingredient in our Kawakawa Face Oil, formulated especially for oily and acne‑prone skin, and in our deeply nourishing body butter including Kawakawa & Mango Body Butter and Kawakawa & Cocoa Butter Body Butter.
To honour this beautiful rākau and its significance, our kawakawa is hand-harvested sustainably in accordance with tikanga Māori then slowly infused into Apricot Kernal Oil.
It’s a process of patience and respect, and the result? Radiance that truly honours both skin and whenua.