Red Matipou

Myrsine australis (A.Rich.) Allan

Synonyms: Rapanea australis (A.Rich.) W.R.B. Oliver, Myrsine urvillei A.DC., Suttonia australis

Common & Folk Names

• Māpou (Māori – primary name)
• Red Matipou
• Red Matipo
• Māpau (South Island Māori)
• Matipo
• Matipou
• Tāpau (Ngāpuhi)
• Mataira (Chatham Islands)
• Tāpau
• Takapou

Plant Family

Myrsinaceae (Myrsine family, now classified within Primulaceae)

Geographic Location

Native Range: Endemic to New Zealand. Found throughout both North and South Islands from Three Kings Islands to Stewart Island. Also occurs on Auckland Islands and Chatham Islands. Common in coastal to montane situations up to approximately 1,000 metres elevation.

Current Distribution: Widespread throughout New Zealand in regenerating and mature forests, bush margins, scrubland, and coastal areas. Particularly abundant on northern offshore islands. One of the most common native shrubs in regenerating vegetation. Historically described as “perhaps the most generally diffused plant in New Zealand” before pastoral development.

Conservation Status: Not Threatened. Common and widespread throughout its range.

Habitat

Māpou demonstrates remarkable ecological versatility and resilience. It thrives in forest margins, regenerating bush, mature forest understorey, scrubland, coastal areas, and wetland edges. The species is an important early coloniser of bare ground, establishing quickly on disturbed sites, yet can also survive and persist in dense forest understorey with limited light. This dual strategy–pioneer species AND shade-tolerant understorey plant–makes it ecologically valuable.

Māpou tolerates a wide range of conditions including coastal exposure, strong winds, varying moisture levels, and browsing pressure from introduced mammals. Its unpalatable leaves protect it from heavy grazing by sheep, cattle, and even possums, which contributes to its abundance in modified landscapes where more palatable natives have been reduced.

Growing Conditions

Sun: Tolerates full sun to dense shade. Most vigorous growth in full sun to partial shade, but can survive in deep forest shade.

Soil: Highly adaptable. Grows in clay, loam, sand, rocky soils, and periodically wet soils. pH range approximately 5.0-7.5. Tolerates nutrient-poor soils.

Moisture: Moderate moisture requirements. Tolerates both periodic wetness (can grow on wetland margins) and moderate drought once established. Prefers consistent moisture but adapts to varying conditions.

Temperature: Hardy once established. Young plants moderately frost-tender (protect from hard frosts below -5°C). Mature plants tolerate frosts to approximately -8 to -10°C. Performs well in USDA zones 8-11. Coastal populations particularly salt-tolerant.

Propagation:

Seed: Best propagation method. Collect dark brown to black drupes (2-4 mm diameter) September-December. Seeds require chilling period for germination. Sow fresh seed or store in cool, moist stratification. Germination slow and irregular–can take 4-5 times longer than other NZ natives (several months to over a year). Germination rate 30-50%. Plant has seed bank capacity–seeds can remain dormant for a year or more.

Cuttings: Possible but challenging. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken late summer have low success rate (20-40%). Best results with mist unit and rooting hormone. Not recommended for home propagators.

Note: Seed-grown plants show natural variation in leaf shape and color.

Care:

• Feed lightly with native plant fertiliser in spring (light feeders, don’t over-fertilise)
• Can be pruned to shape, tolerates trimming well
• Makes effective hedge or shelter belt (dense foliage, wind-tolerant)
• Water regularly first growing season; established plants very drought-tolerant
• Generally pest and disease-free
• Unpalatable to browsing animals (sheep, cattle, possums avoid)
• Excellent for revegetation projects and erosion control

NZ Planting Calendar

Sowing (seed): Autumn to winter (April–August) – requires cold stratification

Propagation (cuttings): Summer to autumn (January–April) – semi-hardwood cuttings

Planting: Autumn (March–May) or spring (September–November)

Growth: Evergreen shrub/small tree; slow initial growth, then vigorous

Flowering: November–January (late spring to summer) – clusters of small white/cream flowers

Fruiting: February–May (autumn) – small black berries

Harvest (bark): Year-round; traditional harvest from dead branches or pruned material only

Harvesting Guidelines

Optimal Timing: Harvest leaves year-round as needed, though traditional practice may have favoured specific times. No seasonal variation in constituent content has been documented in scientific literature.

Harvesting Protocol:

Selection: Choose healthy, vigorously growing plants. Māpou is common and widespread, making sustainable harvesting easier than for rarer natives. However, still practice restraint and respect.

Technique:

• Harvest only mature leaves (avoid stripping young growth)
• Take no more than 10-15% of foliage from any single plant
• Select leaves from multiple branches rather than heavily from one area
• Use clean, sharp secateurs or pinch cleanly with fingers
• For bark (traditionally used for toothache): take only from branches being pruned or removed, never ring-bark living stems

Sustainable Practice:

• Māpou is abundant, but still harvest thoughtfully
• Allow at least 3-6 months between harvests from the same plant
• Consider growing your own plants for regular medicinal use
• Never harvest roots
• If collecting bark for toothache remedy, use only fallen branches or wood from pruning

Processing:

• Fresh leaves: Can be used immediately or refrigerated 2-3 days
• Drying: Spread leaves in single layer in shade with good airflow, 5-10 days until crisp
• Bark: Wash thoroughly, allow to dry completely before storage
• Store dried material in airtight containers away from light, use within 12 months

Parts Used

• Leaves: Primary medicinal part, contains rutin, embelin, and glucuronic acid
• Bark: Traditionally used for toothache remedy (inner bark particularly)

Constituents & Their Actions

Māpou’s medicinal properties derive from its content of flavonoids, quinones, triterpene saponins, and other bioactive compounds. While phytochemical research specific to Myrsine australis is limited compared to related species, scientific analysis has confirmed several key constituents, and research on closely related Myrsine species provides insight into likely additional compounds.

Flavonoid Glycosides:

Māpou leaves contain significant amounts of flavonoid glycosides, particularly rutin. Research on related Myrsine species has identified diverse flavonoid profiles including quercetin derivatives, myricetin glycosides, and acetylated rhamnosides. The main flavonoids in māpou and related Myrsine species include:

• Rutin (quercetin-3-O-rutinoside) – confirmed present in M. australis
• Quercetin derivatives (likely present based on genus profile)
• Myricetin glycosides (identified in M. africana)
• Acetylated flavonoid rhamnosides (characteristic of Myrsine genus)

The main actions of these flavonoids are:

• Vascular protection and strengthening: Rutin strengthens capillary walls by inhibiting enzymes (hyaluronidase, collagenase) that degrade vascular basement membranes, which in turn increases capillary resistance to micro-rupture and reduces capillary permeability and fragility. This protective effect supports healthy blood vessels and reduces abnormal blood flow that causes petechiae and telangiectasia.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Flavonoids inhibit inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which in turn reduces synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Rutin also inhibits NF-κB activation, which in turn downregulates expression of multiple inflammatory genes simultaneously.
• Antioxidant activity: The catechol B-ring structure of flavonoids donates electrons to neutralise superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, which in turn protects cells and tissues from oxidative damage. Flavonoids also chelate pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺), which in turn prevents them from catalysing damaging Fenton reactions.
• Vasodilation and circulatory support: Rutin activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) via PI3K/Akt pathway, which in turn increases nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide causes vasodilation, which in turn improves blood flow, reduces blood pressure, and inhibits platelet aggregation.
• Antiplatelet effects: Rutin inhibits phospholipase A₂ and reduces intracellular calcium mobilisation, which in turn decreases thromboxane A₂ production and platelet stickiness, providing protection against inappropriate clot formation.

Quinones (Embelin):

Scientific analysis has identified embelin in māpou leaves. Embelin (2,5-dihydroxy-3-undecyl-p-benzoquinone) is a hydroxybenzoquinone compound characteristic of the Myrsinaceae family and well-studied in related species Embelia ribes. In māpou:

• Embelin – confirmed present in M. australis leaves

The main actions of embelin are:

• Antimicrobial activity: Embelin demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects against bacteria, fungi, and parasites through multiple mechanisms including membrane disruption and interference with microbial metabolism. This supports traditional use for infections.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: Embelin modulates inflammatory pathways including NF-κB, MAPK, and COX-2, which in turn reduces production of inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, prostaglandins), providing anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• Antioxidant properties: Embelin scavenges free radicals and upregulates antioxidant enzyme systems, which in turn protects tissues from oxidative stress and supports healing.
• Analgesic effects: Embelin provides pain relief through anti-inflammatory mechanisms and possibly through modulation of pain pathways, supporting traditional use for toothache.
• Immunomodulatory activity: Embelin modulates immune cell function and cytokine production, which may provide tonic effects on immune system function.

Phenolic Acids (Glucuronic Acid):

Māpou leaves contain glucuronic acid, confirmed through scientific analysis. Glucuronic acid and related phenolic compounds provide:

• Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects: Glucuronic acid is used medicinally for arthritic conditions. It modulates inflammatory processes, which in turn reduces joint pain and inflammation, supporting traditional use for rheumatic complaints.
• Detoxification support: Glucuronic acid participates in Phase II detoxification in the liver through glucuronidation, which in turn facilitates elimination of toxins and metabolic waste products.
• Antioxidant activity: Phenolic acids scavenge reactive oxygen species, which in turn protects cells from oxidative damage.

Triterpene Saponins:

Research on Myrsine species confirms the presence of triterpene saponins, particularly those with characteristic 13,28-epoxy-bridged oleanane skeletons found throughout the Myrsinaceae/Primulaceae families. While specific saponins from M. australis require further characterisation, related Myrsine species contain:

• Cyclamiretin-based saponins (identified in M. pellucida)
• 13,28-Epoxyoleanane triterpene saponins (characteristic of Myrsinaceae)
• Myrseguinosides and related compounds (identified in M. seguinii)

The main actions of these triterpene saponins are:

• Anti-inflammatory effects: Triterpene saponins inhibit inflammatory signaling pathways including NF-κB and MAPK, which in turn reduces inflammatory mediator production. They also inhibit 5-LOX enzyme activity, which in turn reduces leukotriene synthesis and provides anti-inflammatory effects relevant to arthritis and inflammatory conditions.
• Immunomodulatory activity: Saponins modulate T-cell and dendritic cell activity, which in turn affects immune responses. They can enhance or regulate immunity depending on structure and dose, potentially explaining traditional use as a general tonic.
• Antimicrobial properties: Triterpene saponins demonstrate antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activities through membrane-disrupting effects and interference with microbial metabolism.
• Cardiovascular support: Some triterpene saponins provide hypocholesterolemic and anticoagulant effects, which may support vascular health alongside the flavonoid content.
• Bitter tonic action: Saponins contribute to bitter taste, which stimulates digestive secretions when taken internally, supporting digestive function.

Tannins:

Related Myrsine species contain tannins (both hydrolysable and condensed types). While not specifically quantified in M. australis, likely present based on genus profile and astringent taste of preparations:

• Astringent effects: Tannins precipitate proteins on mucous membranes, providing tissue-toning and protective effects
• Antimicrobial activity: Tannins interfere with bacterial cell walls and enzymes
• Antioxidant properties: Contribute to overall antioxidant activity of plant

Alkaloids:

Myrsine species have been shown to contain alkaloids, though specific alkaloid profile of M. australis requires further research.

Other Constituents:

Additional compounds likely present based on Myrsine genus research include:

• Terpenoids: Monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids contributing to aromatic properties
• Steroids: Phytosterols with potential anti-inflammatory effects
• Lignans: Providing antioxidant and other biological activities

Actions with Mechanisms

Vascular Protective and Capillary Strengthening:
Māpou demonstrates significant vascular protective effects, primarily through its rutin content. Rutin strengthens the structural integrity of capillaries and blood vessels by inhibiting enzymes that degrade essential vascular components, which in turn preserves vessel wall strength. Specifically, rutin inhibits hyaluronidase and collagenase enzymes that break down hyaluronic acid and collagen in vascular basement membranes, which in turn maintains the structural scaffold that supports capillary walls. This strengthening effect increases capillary resistance to micro-rupture from mechanical stress or increased pressure, which in turn prevents the formation of petechiae (small hemorrhages) and telangiectasia (visible dilated capillaries). Rutin also reduces capillary permeability by stabilising the junctions between endothelial cells, which in turn prevents excessive fluid leakage from vessels into surrounding tissues. This reduced permeability addresses edema formation and tissue swelling. The flavonoid activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) through PI3K/Akt-mediated phosphorylation, which in turn increases nitric oxide availability. Enhanced nitric oxide causes vasodilation, which in turn improves blood flow and reduces vascular resistance, supporting healthy circulation. These vascular protective mechanisms explain māpou’s traditional and modern use for blood vessel problems, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and conditions involving capillary fragility.

Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic:
Māpou produces anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects through multiple constituent groups working synergistically. The flavonoids inhibit key inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which in turn reduces synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes that drive pain and inflammation. Rutin and other flavonoids inhibit NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa B), a master regulator of inflammatory gene expression, which in turn downregulates production of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) simultaneously. Embelin provides additional anti-inflammatory effects by modulating MAPK signaling pathways and inhibiting inflammatory mediator production, which in turn reduces both acute and chronic inflammation. Triterpene saponins contribute anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting 5-LOX enzyme activity, which in turn reduces leukotriene synthesis particularly relevant to inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Glucuronic acid modulates inflammatory processes in joint tissues, which in turn alleviates arthritic pain and inflammation. The combined antioxidant effects of flavonoids, embelin, and other constituents neutralise reactive oxygen species that amplify inflammatory responses, which in turn breaks the cycle of oxidative stress and inflammation. The analgesic effects arise partly from reduced inflammation but also from direct modulation of pain pathways by embelin and possibly other constituents. These mechanisms support māpou’s traditional use for arthritis, rheumatic conditions, toothache, and general pain relief.

Antimicrobial and Infection-Fighting:
Māpou demonstrates significant antimicrobial activity through its content of embelin, flavonoids, triterpene saponins, and likely tannins. Embelin, a hydroxybenzoquinone, exerts broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects by disrupting microbial cell membranes, which in turn increases membrane permeability and causes leakage of essential cellular components. Embelin also interferes with microbial metabolic processes and enzyme systems, which in turn inhibits bacterial, fungal, and parasitic growth. Flavonoids contribute antimicrobial activity through multiple mechanisms including oxidative damage to microbial cells, enzyme inhibition, and interference with microbial signaling systems. Triterpene saponins possess membrane-disrupting properties that are particularly effective against bacteria and fungi, which in turn provides additional antimicrobial effects. The synergistic combination of these antimicrobial constituents provides activity against various pathogens, supporting traditional use for skin infections, wounds, and possibly systemic infections when taken internally. The antimicrobial properties work alongside anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects to address infected conditions comprehensively.

Antioxidant and Cellular Protection:
Māpou provides potent antioxidant protection through multiple constituent groups. Flavonoids, particularly rutin, possess powerful free radical scavenging capacity through their catechol B-ring structure, which donates electrons to neutralise damaging superoxide and hydroxyl radicals, which in turn protects cellular components (lipids, proteins, DNA) from oxidative damage. Rutin also chelates pro-oxidant metal ions (Fe²⁺, Cu²⁺), which in turn prevents these metals from catalysing Fenton reactions that generate highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. Embelin demonstrates significant antioxidant activity through direct free radical scavenging and by upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase), which in turn enhances the body’s natural antioxidant defenses. Phenolic acids and triterpene saponins contribute additional antioxidant capacity. This comprehensive antioxidant protection reduces oxidative stress implicated in aging, chronic diseases, inflammation, and vascular damage. The antioxidant effects work synergistically with anti-inflammatory actions–reduced oxidative stress diminishes inflammation, while reduced inflammation decreases oxidative stress generation.

Digestive Tonic and Bitter Stimulant:
Māpou’s bitter principles, including triterpene saponins and possibly other compounds, stimulate bitter taste receptors on the tongue and throughout the digestive tract, which in turn activates vagal nerve signaling. This vagal activation increases production of gastric acid, digestive enzymes, and bile, which in turn enhances digestive efficiency and prepares the gastrointestinal system for food processing. The mild astringent properties from tannins may tone digestive tissues, which in turn supports healthy digestive function. The combined bitter-stimulant and tonic effects support appetite, improve digestion of foods, and address weak or sluggish digestion. These effects explain traditional use as a general health tonic.

Oral Health and Dental Analgesic:
Māpou’s traditional use for toothache and tooth cleaning reflects multiple relevant properties. The analgesic effects of embelin and anti-inflammatory flavonoids reduce dental pain through modulation of inflammatory processes and pain pathways. When bark or leaves are chewed or held in the mouth, embelin and other constituents provide direct contact analgesia to painful teeth and inflamed gums. The antimicrobial properties combat oral bacteria that cause dental decay and gum disease, supporting oral hygiene. The mild astringent effects from tannins may tone gum tissue and reduce bleeding. The traditional practice of chewing bark or leaves or holding decoction in the mouth allows prolonged contact of active constituents with affected tissues, maximising local effects.

Immunomodulatory and General Tonic:
Māpou’s traditional use as a general health tonic likely reflects immunomodulatory and adaptogenic properties. Triterpene saponins modulate T-cell and dendritic cell activity, which in turn influences immune system function. Depending on dose and specific structures, saponins can enhance immune responses to pathogens or modulate excessive immune activation. Embelin demonstrates immunomodulatory activity through effects on cytokine production and immune cell function, which in turn supports balanced immune function. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects reduce chronic low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress that impair immune function, which in turn supports overall health and resilience. The combination of immune support, antioxidant protection, digestive tonic effects, and circulatory support provides general vitality-enhancing effects consistent with use as a traditional health tonic.

Antiplatelet and Circulatory Support:
Rutin inhibits platelet aggregation through inhibition of phospholipase A₂ and reduction of intracellular calcium mobilisation, which in turn decreases thromboxane A₂ production and reduces platelet stickiness. This antiplatelet effect, combined with vasodilation from nitric oxide production, improves blood flow and reduces risk of inappropriate clot formation. These effects support cardiovascular health and may contribute to traditional use for improving circulation. The vascular strengthening and anti-inflammatory effects work synergistically with antiplatelet activity to support overall vascular health.

Main Use

Māpou serves multiple medicinal purposes in traditional rongoā Māori and contemporary herbal practice, though its primary traditional significance was ceremonial and spiritual rather than medicinal. The documented medicinal applications represent secondary uses of this sacred plant.

Primary Traditional Use – Toothache and Oral Health: Māpou’s most well-documented medicinal application is for toothache and dental pain. The traditional preparation involved washing and boiling the bark, then squeezing out the fluid and holding it in the mouth until pain eased. Alternatively, bark or leaves could be chewed directly. The analgesic effects of embelin combined with anti-inflammatory flavonoids provide effective pain relief for dental discomfort. The antimicrobial properties combat oral bacteria contributing to dental infections and decay. Modern scientific analysis confirms the presence of embelin, a compound used in traditional Indian medicine (where it’s found in related species Embelia ribes) as an analgesic and general tonic. The traditional practice of using māpou for cleaning teeth reflects its antimicrobial properties and possibly mild astringent effects that tone gum tissue. This oral health application remains the most prominent medicinal use.

Arthritis and Rheumatic Conditions: Scientific analysis has revealed that māpou leaves contain glucuronic acid, a compound used in modern medicine for treating certain arthritic conditions. Traditional Māori medicine recognised māpou’s anti-arthritic properties, using it for rheumatic complaints. The anti-inflammatory effects arise from multiple constituents–flavonoids inhibit COX and LOX enzymes, triterpene saponins inhibit 5-LOX and NF-κB, glucuronic acid modulates inflammatory processes in joints, and embelin provides additional anti-inflammatory activity. These synergistic mechanisms reduce joint inflammation, pain, and swelling. Māpou can be taken internally as tea or decoction for systemic anti-inflammatory effects, or applied topically (as poultice or in baths) for localised joint pain. The combination of analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects makes it valuable for both acute and chronic rheumatic conditions.

Vascular and Circulatory Support: Modern research identifying rutin in māpou leaves provides scientific validation for potential vascular applications. Rutin is well-established in medical literature for treating blood vessel problems, particularly:

• Chronic venous insufficiency: Rutin strengthens vein walls and reduces symptoms (leg pain, swelling, heaviness, varicose veins)
• Capillary fragility: Rutin reduces abnormal capillary permeability and prevents petechiae and bruising
• Hemorrhoids: Rutin’s vascular-strengthening and anti-inflammatory effects address hemorrhoidal symptoms
• Hypertension support: Vasodilation from nitric oxide production helps reduce blood pressure
  While these specific applications weren’t extensively documented in traditional Māori use, the presence of therapeutically significant amounts of rutin suggests māpou could support vascular health when taken regularly as tea. The vascular protective effects work preventively over time rather than as acute treatment.

General Health Tonic: Traditional practice used māpou tea as a general health tonic. This reflects the plant’s multiple supportive properties–immunomodulatory effects from triterpene saponins and embelin, antioxidant protection from flavonoids and embelin, anti-inflammatory effects that reduce chronic low-grade inflammation, digestive tonic effects from bitter principles, and circulatory support from rutin. The combination provides general vitality-enhancing and health-maintaining effects. Regular use of māpou tea may support overall resilience, healthy aging, and protection against chronic disease through these multiple mechanisms.

Skin Conditions and Wounds: While less prominently documented than other uses, embelin (present in māpou) is used in traditional Indian medicine for treating skin diseases. The antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties would support healing of wounds, infections, and inflammatory skin conditions. Māpou could potentially be applied topically as poultice or wash for skin issues, though this application requires more traditional validation.

Intestinal Parasites: Embelin possesses anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) activity and is used traditionally for intestinal worms in Indian medicine. Whether Māori medicine employed māpou for this purpose is unclear from available documentation, but the presence of embelin suggests potential efficacy.

Cultural and Ceremonial Significance: It is crucial to emphasise that māpou’s PRIMARY traditional importance was as a rākau tapu (sacred tree) used ceremonially by tohunga. Sprigs were dipped in sacred water and used to sprinkle water for cleansing and blessing. Tohunga sometimes carried māpou staffs as badges of office. The plant played roles in baptisms, tangi (funerals), kūmara planting ceremonies (pole placed as mauri/physical representation of Rongo), and healing rituals where a wand was used to transfer wairua or atua for diagnosis. This spiritual and ceremonial dimension vastly exceeds the medicinal applications in traditional significance and cannot be separated from the plant’s identity in Māori culture.

Traditional Craft Uses: The exceptionally strong, springy timber was used for composite adze handles, fernroot beaters, kō (digging sticks), tool handles, waka keels (Chatham Islands), walking sticks, chair-making, and bag net handles. The wood “bends rather than breaks,” making it ideal for implements requiring flexibility and resilience.

Preparations

Leaf Tea/Infusion (General Tonic):

• Use 5-8 fresh leaves or 3-5 grams dried leaf per cup (250 ml) boiling water
• Steep covered 10-15 minutes, strain
• Taste is bitter with astringent notes
• Uses: General health tonic, digestive support, arthritis, vascular support, anti-inflammatory

Decoction (Stronger Preparation):

• Use 8-12 grams dried leaf (or 15-20 grams fresh) per litre water
• Bring to boil, reduce heat, simmer covered 15-20 minutes
• Strain well
• Produces stronger, more bitter preparation
• Uses: Arthritis, chronic conditions, can be used as topical wash

Bark Decoction (Traditional Toothache Remedy):

• Take small piece of clean bark (2-3 cm × 5 cm from pruned branch)
• Wash thoroughly
• Boil in 250 ml water for 10-15 minutes
• Strain and cool to comfortable temperature
• Traditional method: Squeeze fluid from boiled bark, hold in mouth at site of pain
• Alternative: Use cooled decoction as mouth rinse, holding at painful area 2-3 minutes
• Can repeat several times daily as needed
• Uses: Toothache, dental pain, oral infections, gum inflammation

Chewed Fresh Leaf or Bark (Traditional Toothache Method):

• Take 1-2 fresh leaves OR small piece of inner bark
• Chew slowly and thoroughly at site of tooth pain
• Hold crushed material against affected tooth/gum
• Swallow juice or spit out
• Provides direct contact analgesia
• Uses: Acute toothache, dental pain

Topical Poultice:

• Bruise or crush several fresh leaves to release juices
• Apply directly to affected area (inflamed joint, wound, skin irritation)
• Secure with clean cloth or bandage
• Leave in place 1-3 hours
• Replace 2-3 times daily
• For dried leaves: Reconstitute with hot water until softened, drain, apply
• Uses: Arthritis (apply to affected joints), wounds, skin inflammation

Topical Wash/Compress:

• Prepare decoction as above
• Allow to cool to comfortable temperature
• Apply with clean cloth as compress OR use as wash
• For arthritic joints: Soak cloth in warm decoction, apply to joint, cover to retain warmth, leave 15-20 minutes
• Uses: Rheumatic joints, wounds, skin conditions

Bath Infusion (Rheumatism):

• Prepare strong decoction (30-40 grams dried leaf in 2 litres water, simmered 20 minutes)
• Add entire preparation to bath
• Soak 15-20 minutes
• Uses: Generalised arthritis, rheumatic pain, muscle aches

Dosage

Leaf Tea (Tonic Use):

• Adults: 1 cup standard strength tea, 2-3 times daily
• Elderly: Same as adult dose
• Children 12-18 years: Half adult dose (125 ml), 2 times daily
• Children 6-12 years: Quarter adult dose (60 ml), 1-2 times daily
• Children under 6: Not recommended without professional guidance
• Duration: Can use long-term as tonic (months to years at moderate doses)

Decoction (Therapeutic Use for Arthritis/Inflammation):

• Adults: 100-150 ml strong decoction, 2-3 times daily
• Elderly: 75-100 ml, 2-3 times daily
• Duration: Use for weeks to months for chronic conditions; reduce to tonic dose for maintenance

Bark Decoction (Toothache):

• Use as needed for acute dental pain
• Hold in mouth 3-5 minutes per application
• Can repeat every 2-3 hours as needed
• Seek dental care for underlying dental problems–māpou provides symptomatic relief but doesn’t treat decay or infection requiring professional intervention

Topical Applications:

• Poultice: Apply 2-4 times daily, 1-3 hours per application
• Wash/Compress: Use 3-4 times daily on affected areas
• Bath: 15-20 minute bath once daily or every other day
• No maximum topical dose (assuming no allergic reaction)

General Notes:

• Start with lower doses and increase as needed
• Take with food if stomach upset occurs (bitter principles can irritate sensitive stomachs)
• Therapeutic effects for chronic conditions (arthritis, vascular support) develop over weeks to months of regular use
• Acute conditions (toothache) may respond quickly (minutes to hours)

Safety & Drug Interactions

Scientific Evidence

Phytochemical Characterisation:
Scientific analysis of Myrsine australis leaves has confirmed the presence of three key constituents:

1. Rutin – a flavonoid glycoside with extensive research supporting vascular protective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiplatelet effects (Herb Federation of New Zealand, Ngāi Tahu sources)
2. Embelin – a hydroxybenzoquinone compound used traditionally in Indian medicine as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and general tonic (Ngāi Tahu sources, supported by extensive research on Embelia ribes)
3. Glucuronic acid – a phenolic compound used in modern medicine for treating arthritic conditions (Ngāi Tahu sources, Wikipedia)

While comprehensive phytochemical profiling specific to M. australis is limited, research on closely related Myrsine species provides insight into likely additional constituents. Studies on M. africana and other congeners have identified diverse flavonoid profiles (quercetin, myricetin, and various glycosides), triterpene saponins (particularly 13,28-epoxyoleanane types characteristic of Myrsinaceae), phenolic acids, alkaloids, tannins, and terpenoids.

Pharmacological Evidence for Key Constituents:

Rutin (Vascular and Anti-inflammatory Effects):
Extensive research supports rutin’s therapeutic properties:

• Vascular protection: Strengthens capillaries by inhibiting enzymes that degrade vascular basement membranes (hyaluronidase, collagenase), reduces capillary permeability and fragility, improves symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency
• Anti-inflammatory: Inhibits COX, LOX, and NF-κB pathways, reducing inflammatory mediator production
• Antioxidant: Scavenges free radicals, chelates pro-oxidant metals, protects against oxidative stress
• Antiplatelet: Inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing clot formation risk
• Vasodilation: Activates eNOS to increase nitric oxide, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure
• Well-established in medical literature for treating venous insufficiency, capillary fragility, hemorrhoids, and hypertension

Embelin (Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Effects):
Research on embelin from Embelia ribes and other Myrsine species demonstrates:

• Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and parasites
• Anti-inflammatory effects through modulation of NF-κB, MAPK, and COX-2 pathways
• Antioxidant activity with upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes
• Analgesic properties supporting traditional use for toothache
• Immunomodulatory effects
• Used extensively in traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine as anthelmintic, analgesic, and tonic
• Oral bioavailability approximately 30%, supporting efficacy when taken internally

Glucuronic Acid (Anti-arthritic Effects):
Glucuronic acid is recognised in modern medicine for treating arthritic conditions through anti-inflammatory mechanisms and modulation of joint inflammatory processes.

Triterpene Saponins (Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory):
Research on triterpene saponins from Myrsine species demonstrates:

• Anti-inflammatory effects via NF-κB inhibition and 5-LOX enzyme inhibition
• Immunomodulatory effects on T-cells and dendritic cells
• Antimicrobial properties
• Cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines (in vitro studies)
• Generally low toxicity with good safety profile

Traditional Use Documentation:
Māpou’s medicinal use is documented in multiple historical and ethnobotanical sources:

• Reverend Richard Taylor (1855) noted widespread abundance
• Traditional use for toothache documented across multiple sources
• Use as general health tonic confirmed in traditional accounts
• Ceremonial significance extensively documented by ethnographer Elsdon Best and other sources
• Craft uses (tools, waka parts) documented in archaeological and ethnographic records
• Modern recognition by Te Rōnanga o Ngāi Tahu and Herb Federation of New Zealand as medicinal plant

Research Limitations:
Most evidence for M. australis specifically is ethnobotanical and constituent-based rather than from clinical trials. No modern clinical trials exist evaluating efficacy for specific conditions. Phytochemical profiling remains incomplete–further research needed on complete constituent profile, seasonal variation, and quantification of active compounds. Safety studies in humans are lacking. Antimicrobial testing specific to M. australis extracts needs to be conducted. Optimal doses for various conditions not established through clinical research.

Evidence from Related Species:
The genus Myrsine has received increasing scientific attention. A 2024 comprehensive review documented >134 phytochemicals across the genus with widespread panel of pharmacological activities including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and hepatoprotective effects. M. africana demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects through 5-LOX inhibition, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial effects, and traditional use for similar conditions. M. seguinii extracts inhibit inflammatory signaling via Src/Syk/NF-κB and IRAK-1/AP-1 pathways.

Despite research limitations specific to M. australis, the confirmed presence of well-studied constituents (rutin, embelin, glucuronic acid) combined with traditional knowledge and research on related species provides substantial support for māpou’s therapeutic value.

Western Energetics

Temperature: Cooling to Neutral
Māpou demonstrates primarily cooling energetic properties. The anti-inflammatory effects, vascular protective actions that reduce heat-related capillary problems, and bitter taste all indicate cooling effects. The plant addresses hot, inflamed conditions (arthritis, inflamed gums, toothache). However, māpou is not intensely cooling, falling more in the neutral-to-cool range. This moderate cooling makes it suitable for inflammatory conditions without being contraindicated in deficiency states or cold conditions.

Moisture: Moderately Drying
Māpou exhibits moderate drying properties through likely tannin content and astringent effects observed in preparations. The drying quality addresses damp, boggy tissue states and excessive fluid accumulation. However, it’s not as intensely drying as high-tannin plants like koromiko. The moderate drying nature makes it suitable for conditions with excess dampness while not being so drying as to aggravate dry, atrophic conditions.

Tissue State: Best suited for Heat/Excitation, Damp-Heat, and Atony with Heat

• Heat/Excitation: The cooling, anti-inflammatory properties address hot, inflamed tissue states (inflammatory arthritis, inflamed gums, acute toothache, inflamed blood vessels)
• Damp-Heat: The combination of cooling anti-inflammatory effects with moderate drying addresses conditions where dampness and heat co-exist (certain types of skin infections, oral infections with inflammation)
• Atony with Heat: The vascular-strengthening effects combined with anti-inflammatory properties address tissues that are both lax/weak AND inflamed (varicose veins with inflammation, hemorrhoids, weak capillaries with inflammatory damage)

Less Suitable For: Very cold conditions, severe deficiency states, or purely damp-cold patterns may not benefit from māpou’s cooling nature. However, the moderate quality of its temperature makes it more versatile than intensely cooling herbs.

Taste

Bitter: The dominant taste is pronounced bitterness from triterpene saponins and other bitter principles. This bitterness stimulates bitter taste receptors on the tongue and in the digestive tract, triggering vagal nerve signaling that increases digestive secretions (gastric acid, enzymes, bile). The bitter taste indicates the plant’s digestive tonic and general tonic effects.

Astringent: Underlying astringent quality from tannins creates mild puckering, drying, tightening sensation. This reflects the tissue-toning and anti-inflammatory effects, though less pronounced than in plants like koromiko.

Absence of Other Tastes: Māpou lacks sweet, salty, sour, or pungent tastes. The primarily bitter taste with underlying astringency indicates an herb for tonic use and treating conditions requiring cooling, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-strengthening effects rather than for acute intense interventions or nutritive support.

Plant Lore

Diagnostic and Healing Rituals:
Ethnographer Elsdon Best recorded a remarkable diagnostic practice: when someone fell ill, a person would take a wand of karamō (Coprosma), māpou, or maire and touch the sick person with it. The belief held that the wairua or atua (spirit) of the sick person would enter the wand. Without stopping to talk to anyone, the person would take the wand directly to a tohunga, who could determine from the wand whether the person would recover from their ailments. This practice reflects the deep spiritual dimension of healing in rongoā Māori, where physical and spiritual aspects of illness were inseparable.

Agricultural and Food Ceremonies:
A pole of māpou was sometimes placed at the eastern end of a kō«mara plantation as a mauri–a physical representation or embodiment of Rongo, the atua (deity) guardian of agriculture and cultivated food. This practice connected the sacred tree to food security and agricultural abundance. Kō«mara planting and harvest involved complex ceremonies where māpou played ritual roles.

Mythological Connection:
The tree was sometimes known as the “loin cloth of Whānui”–Whānui being the Māori name for the star Vega. Māori tradition holds that the kō«mara (sweet potato) originated with Whānui but was stolen and brought to earth by Rongo, the god of cultivated food. This stellar association adds another layer to māpou’s sacred significance.

Practical and Craft Uses:
The wood of māpou is exceptionally strong and springy, described as wood that “bends rather than breaks” or “will not break easily under load.” This unique property made it invaluable for implements requiring flexibility and resilience:

• Composite adze handles: The lower section requiring spring and strength
• Kō: Digging sticks for planting kō«mara, needing to flex without snapping
• Waka keels: On Chatham Islands, used for boat construction
• Bag net handles: The springy property prevented breakage (Rororua Māori practice)
• Fernroot beaters: Archaeological specimens documented
• Walking sticks, chair-making, carpenters’ tools: Colonial applications
• Teka (dart weapons): Archaeological finds

Natural Dye:
Scrapings of the inner bark of māpou combined with bruised leaves of kawakawa produced a red dye. Fibre was wrapped with this mixture, left to steep, then dried in front of a fire to set the color.

Resilience and Regeneration:
Māpou’s unpalatability to introduced browsing animals (sheep, cattle, possums) allowed it to persist and even thrive in modified landscapes where more palatable natives were reduced or eliminated. This resilience made it a key species in forest regeneration. Taylor’s 1855 observation that it was “perhaps the most generally diffused plant in New Zealand” with “large groves in every direction” speaks to its historical abundance before intensive pastoral development. The plant’s pioneering ability–rapidly colonising bare ground while also surviving in dense forest–makes it ecologically invaluable for restoration.

Modern Recognition:
Contemporary sources including Te Rō«nanga o Ngāi Tahu recognise māpou’s dual significance–its sacred ceremonial role and its medicinal properties. The Herb Federation of New Zealand includes it among important medicinal natives. Scientific confirmation of embelin, rutin, and glucuronic acid validates traditional medicinal knowledge while opening possibilities for further research.

Additional Information

Identification Features:
Mature māpou is a small tree or large shrub 3-6 metres tall with distinctive features:

• Red stems: Young branches and branchlets have characteristic reddish bark (key identifying feature distinguishing from black matipo/kōhūhū which has black stems)
• Crinkly leaves: Pale green to yellowish leaves 3-6 cm long, 1.5-2.5 cm wide with strongly wavy/undulating margins (most common form), though some plants have flat margins
• Leaf color variation: Some forms show purple/wine-red blotches or spots on leaves
• Flowers: Tiny cream to whitish flowers 1.5-2.5 mm diameter, clustered on branchlets where older leaves have fallen, covered in small orange glands, flowering August-January
• Fruits: Small dark brown to black drupes 2-4 mm diameter, growing directly on stems (not branch ends), appearing September-December
• Bark: Mature trunk bark dark brown to black; young growth red (diagnostic)

Similar Species:
Māpou (Myrsine australis) is often confused with kōhūhū (Pittosporum tenuifolium), also called black matipo. Key differences:

• Stem color: Māpou has red young stems; kōhūhū has black stems
• Leaf texture: Both have wavy-edged leaves, but māpou’s are typically more pronounced
• Family: Different families (Myrsinaceae vs. Pittosporum)
• When using leaves only: Look for old leaf scars on stems to see stem color
• Verify identification before harvesting for medicinal use

Growing in Gardens:
Māpou makes an excellent garden plant for multiple purposes:

• Shelter/hedge: Dense foliage, wind-tolerant, coastal-tolerant, grows 3-6 metres
• Revegetation: Fast-growing pioneer species for ecological restoration
• Wildlife: Flowers provide nectar for native birds (tūī, bellbird, silvereye, kererō«); fruits eaten and dispersed by birds
• Compact growth: Natural bushy habit, responds well to trimming
• Low maintenance: Pest-free, disease-free, drought-tolerant once established
• Ornamental: Red stems on new growth, wavy leaves create interesting texture
• Tolerates: Wide range of soils, sun to shade, coastal exposure, urban conditions

Commercial Availability:

• Live plants: Widely available at native plant nurseries throughout NZ
• Most garden centres with native sections
• Native plant specialists and revegetation suppliers
• Dried leaves: Not commonly commercially available
• Wild harvesting: Common in bush, forest margins, regenerating areas throughout NZ
• More abundant in North Island and northern South Island
• Often dominates regenerating vegetation

Dioecious Nature:
Māpou has separate male and female plants (dioecious). Only female plants produce the small dark berries. For fruit production in gardens, need both male and female plants nearby. However, for medicinal use (leaves, bark), plant sex is irrelevant.

Bird Attraction:
The small drupes are important food for native birds:

• Kererū (New Zealand pigeon)
• Tūī
• Korimako (bellbird)
• Tauhou (silvereye/waxeye)
• Also consumed by introduced blackbirds
  Birds are essential for seed dispersal and regeneration.

Seed Bank Strategy:
Māpou can hold seeds dormant in soil seed bank for a year or more, germinating at irregular intervals. This strategy ensures regeneration over extended periods and explains its pioneering success.

Storage:

• Fresh leaves: Use within 2-3 days or refrigerate
• Drying: Spread in single layer in shade with good airflow, 5-10 days until brittle
• Dried leaves: Store in airtight containers away from light and moisture
• Shelf life: Use dried material within 12 months for optimal potency
• Bark: Thoroughly dry before storage, keep in airtight container, use within 12 months

Distinction from Other “Matipo”:
Common names can cause confusion:

• Red matipo/māpou: Myrsine australis (this plant)
• Black matipo: Pittosporum tenuifolium (kōhūhū) – different family, different uses
• Both names reference the reddish or blackish color of young stems
• Always verify botanical identification for medicinal use

Sources

Wikipedia. (2024). Myrsine australis. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myrsine_australis

Herb Federation of New Zealand. (2023). Red Matipo (Myrsine australis). Herb Awareness Month 2023. Retrieved from https://herbs.org.nz/herbs/red-matipo/

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