Embracing the Heritage and Traditions of Plant Medicine: Using Native Oils in Māori Skincare

For generations, Māori have held a deep relationship with the whenua — the land, the waters, and the natural world that sustains us. Plants were never separate from daily life. They were food, medicine, protection, and care. Knowledge of their uses was passed down carefully, through observation, experience, and respect.

Today, as beauty turns back toward nature, the value of Aotearoa’s native plants is being rediscovered — not as trends, but as powerful, time-honoured ingredients that support skin health in a gentle, effective way.

At PRAISENME, we draw inspiration from these plants to create body care that feels modern, sensorial, and deeply nourishing — while honouring the land they come from.

This is an introduction to some of the native botanicals we love, and why they belong in your everyday routine.

The Māori Relationship with Plants

In te ao Māori, everything is connected. People, plants, land, water — all linked through whakapapa. Plants were traditionally used with intention, not excess, and always with respect for their role within the ecosystem.

At PRAISENME, we acknowledge the deep knowledge Māori have held around native plants for centuries. Many of the ingredients now used in skincare were valued long before modern formulations existed — chosen for their calming, protective and restorative qualities.

Using native botanicals in body care today is about continuity. Carrying forward ingredients that work with the skin, not against it.

Kawakawa — Calm, Repair, Restore

Kawakawa is one of Aotearoa’s most recognised native plants, long valued for its soothing properties. Traditionally used to support irritated or compromised skin, it’s often described as a plant that brings things back into balance.

In skincare, kawakawa is loved for its calming nature. It helps support the skin barrier, ease visible redness, and comfort dry or stressed skin — making it especially suitable for daily body care.

You’ll often find kawakawa in formulas designed to restore softness and resilience, particularly after sun exposure, shaving, or dryness, like our Piata Kawakawa body butter.

How to use it: Apply after showering when skin is still warm to help lock in moisture and calm the skin.

Mānuka — Clarify and Protect

Mānuka has become internationally known for its antibacterial and cleansing properties, but its use in Aotearoa goes back much further. Traditionally, mānuka was used to support skin health and protection.

In modern body care, mānuka extract is valued for helping keep skin clear and balanced. It supports the skin’s natural defences and is often included in formulas for blemish-prone or congested skin — without being harsh or stripping.

It’s especially useful in everyday routines where skin is exposed to sweat, friction, or environmental stress.

Harakeke — Deep Hydration & Barrier Support

Harakeke, or New Zealand flax, is deeply woven into Māori culture — from weaving to daily use. Beyond its fibres, the gel and seed oil have long been recognised for their soothing and hydrating properties.

Harakeke seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids, making it an excellent ingredient for dry or dehydrated skin. It helps support the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and keep skin feeling soft and supple.

This is the kind of ingredient that makes skin feel comfortable — hydrated without heaviness.

How to use it: Ideal for daily moisturising, especially after sun or saltwater exposure.

Why Native Botanicals Belong in Body Care

Using native botanicals isn’t about complexity — it’s about intention. These plants evolved in Aotearoa’s environment, and their properties naturally support skin exposed to sun, wind, salt and changing conditions.

At PRAISENME, we combine these ingredients with modern formulation and scent-driven experiences — creating body care that feels indulgent, effective, and grounded.

A Modern Way to Connect

Incorporating native botanicals into your routine is a small, everyday way to reconnect — to the land, to slower moments, to caring for your body with intention.

Each product is a balance:• Nature and formulation• Heritage and modern life• Glow and nourishment

Final Thoughts

Aotearoa’s native plants offer more than just skin benefits. They carry history, resilience, and a deep connection to place.

By choosing body care made with these ingredients, you’re choosing to support your skin gently and thoughtfully — with ingredients that have stood the test of time.

Simple. Effective. Rooted in the land.