Australian Medicinal Plants

Distribution: Endemic to New Zealand Family: Winteraceae of Magnoliids Uses: Māori communities traditionally used the chewed leaves to heal wounds. Modern day uses: The leaves have a peppery taste, therefore grown as a spice. Due to the peppery taste the plant is also named as pepperwood. It is also used as an ornamental plant due to the beautiful mixture of bright red young leaves and yellow-green blotched mature leaves produced in the spring. Scientific facts: According to scientific research findings, it produce the chemical polygodial which is of antioxidant properties. Polygodial has been characterised to have some inhibition/ anti-fungal activity against Candida . Since this is plant naturally occurring in heavy rainfall-dense forests, it is continuously under attack by insects and fungi, due to that reason this plant is rich with specialised plant metabolites that deter pests. Threats: This is one species which is currently Not Threatened 

Distribution: Native to Australia Family: Monimiaceae of Magnoliids Uses: Therapeutic drink;  an infusion made from the scented bark used as a drink.  This have the ability to help digestive tract ailments acting as a laxative or urinary tract dysfunctions acting as a diuretic. Modern day Ausie uses: Provides great timber and used in making small wooden items like clothing pegs. Scientific facts: According to scientific research findings, it produce the chemical coclaurine which has antianginal (treatment of heart diseases) and antihypertensive (treatment for high blood pressure) properties. Threats: Increasing temperature in the natural habitats threatens the species through competition from other larger trees and negatively effects flower setting during March - July.   Important Facts: The oil from the bark could be poisonous when used in larger quantities

Distribution:  Native to Australia Family:  Winteraceae of Magnoliids Uses:  Medicinal and Culinary Used by Aboriginal communities traditionally as a treatment for toothache, stomach-ache, and indigestion. Used in cooking and herbal tonics were prepared using the plant. Modern day Ausie uses:   Seasoning for Great Ausie BBQ Scientific facts: Research has pointed out the presence of bioactive sesquiterpene Polygodial in leaves. Polygodial accounts for most of its’ antioxidant and bioactive properties. Threats:   Climate change and increasing temperature affects the flowering and fruiting.