SPICE UP YOUR LIFE WITH HOROPITO (Pseudowintera colorata)

When walking through New Zealand native bush, have you ever had your attention caught by a flash of vibrant red and green leaves? Chances are you’ve spotted horopito.

Culinary Applications

Horopito leaves have an intensely spicy, warming, and slightly astringent taste. This distinctive flavour has led to their growing popularity among New Zealand chefs, who use ground horopito as a pepper-like spice. This aromatic native herb adds a fragrant, spicy depth to gourmet dishes and makes an excellent addition to meat rubs.

Fungal Infections

Horopito is best known for its antifungal properties, particularly in the treatment of thrush caused by Candida albicans. It is typically taken internally for this purpose, though some creams are also available for external use.

It can also be effective against fungal infections caused by Trichophyton species, such as athlete’s foot, fungal toenails, and ringworm. For these conditions, horopito is commonly applied topically in creams or ointments. Alternatively, an herbal infusion or decoction can be used externally as a compress.

Painful Joints

When chewed or applied as a poultice, horopito can help relieve painful, red, and inflamed joints. This is a great example of the traditional “doctrine of signatures,” where the plant’s red colouring indicates its use for hot and inflamed conditions.

Other Applications

Fresh horopito leaves can be chewed or simmered in water to create a medicinal decoction. This preparation may help with toothaches, stomach aches, diarrhoea, and gastric infections.

Horopito may also be beneficial for those prone to cold hands and feet, or chilblains during winter, as it has a strong warming effect on the body.

Dosage

Due to its potency and strong flavour, only small amounts are needed. Typically, 0.5–2 grams is used when preparing a decoction, taken up to three times daily.

Do you feel inspired to give this medicinal herbal powerhouse a go?

Shine bright!

Nic