pāʻū o Hiʻiaka
Namepāʻū o Hiʻiaka
Scientific NameJacquemontia sandwicensis
Common NamesPāʻū o Hiʻiaka, Hawaiian Jacquemontia
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatCoastal areas, sandy beaches, dunes, and dry rocky slopes throughout the Hawaiian Islands, tolerant of salt spray and drought.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,leaf
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,demulcent,astringent
Traditional UsesIn traditional Hawaiian medicine (Laʻau Lapaʻau), pāʻū o Hiʻiaka was primarily used externally for skin ailments such as cuts, sores, rashes, and irritations, often applied as a crushed leaf poultice. Internally, it was occasionally used as a mild laxative or for general debility.
Active ConstituentsFlavonoids, Phenolic compounds
Preparation Methodspoultice,infusion,salve
Contraindications & WarningsGenerally considered safe for external use. Internal use should be approached with caution, especially for pregnant women or individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions, due to its mild laxative properties.
Cultivation NotesThrives in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils, demonstrating high tolerance to drought and saline conditions. It is easily propagated from seeds or stem cuttings and is suitable for groundcover in coastal gardens.
Raritycommon
Description
A prostrate or climbing perennial vine native to Hawaii, characterized by small, ovate to heart-shaped leaves and delicate, funnel-shaped white flowers. It typically forms a dense mat, thriving in coastal environments.
