Rutaceae Pelea sp.
Alani-kuahiwi
Hawaiian - Drug, Ceremonial Medicine
Use documented by:
Akana, Akaiko, 1922, Hawaiian Herbs of Medicinal Value, Honolulu: Pacific Book House, page 15
View all documented uses for
Pelea sp.
Scientific name: Pelea sp.
Common names: Alani-kuahiwi
Family: Rutaceae
Family (APG): Rutaceae
Native American Tribe: Hawaiian
Use category: Drug
Use sub-category: Ceremonial Medicine
Notes: Leaves placed on the bed as a beauty remedy for king, queens and their sons and daughters. The alani was the Hawaiian beauty remedy and was dedicated to the exclusive use of the kings and queens and their sons and daughters. The leaves, in sufficient quantity, were taken and laid on the bed, covering the space, from the neck to the feet. A sheeting of tapa, tightly drawn, was laid over the leaves. In the meantime, twenty leaves were allowed to remain in the water overnight and placed in the sun during the day. This was for bathing. Towards evening, the royal child, or the one chosen for beauty, was given a bath of this water. In it were put the alani flowers. After the bath the child was fed a fattening ration. After feeding, and when the child became sleepy, it was placed in the bed covered with the alani leaves. This was repeated for five consecutive days. The bedding was then changed, the old alani leaves were removed and new ones took their place, and the process continued from that point on for five days more. Not only did this treatment improve the appearance, but it made the skin immune to certain diseases, especially skin diseases.
RECRD: 8022 id: 25761