Lecture 5 - Rongoa rakau Flashcards
(15 cards)
Where do the majority of plants used in Rongoā Rakau grow best?
On regenerating edges of native forests (ngahere)
These plants may help heal the land and have healing properties for people.
What is one example of a plant used in Rongoā Rakau that has antifungal properties?
Patete
Patete is known for its ability to defend against fungal attacks.
What responsibility comes with learning rongoā Māori?
To care for and protect the knowledge
The purpose is to promote wellness, not to profit unfairly from people’s health needs.
In Te Ao Māori perspective, what does healing focus on?
The person, not just the disease or injury
Healing emphasizes the connection between the person and treatment.
What did the Tohunga Suppression Act (1907) make illegal?
The practice of traditional Māori healers (Tohunga)
The Crown viewed Māori healing as superstition and aimed to suppress it.
What was one consequence of the Tohunga Suppression Act?
It aimed to discredit Māori leaders
The act blamed Māori healing for poor Māori health.
What has been observed in recent years regarding Rongoā Māori healing?
A renewed interest and respect for traditional healing methods
This resurgence reflects a cultural revival.
Who was Rua Kēnana?
A Māori leader and healer
He was arrested in 1915 for selling alcohol and feared by the Crown.
What should be done before harvesting Rongoā?
Perform karakia (prayers)
Harvesting is best done in the early morning.
What should happen to unused plant material after harvesting?
Return it to the forest (ngahere)
If in contact with illness, plants or materials should be burned or buried.
How was Rongoā Māori traditionally supported?
Healers were supported by their communities
Traditionally, rongoā Māori was never sold.
What ethical issues arise from the commercialization of Rongoā Māori?
Unfair commercialisation
Healers today need income and should be financially supported or accept koha (donations).
What is WAI262?
A claim lodged in 1991 to protect Māori rights over indigenous flora and fauna
It aims to protect taonga and ensure Māori control over natural resources.
What are some applications of Rongoā Rākau?
Herbal infusions, hot compresses, medicated syrups, creams, balms, ointments, tinctures, dressings
Example plant: Kawakawa.
What is the relationship between Rongoā Rākau and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?
Indigenous flora unique to Aotearoa has potential to support diabetes treatment
Māori are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes more frequently and at a younger age than non-Māori.
