Kawakawa for Eczema

In New Zealand, for generations, kawakawa has held an important place in rongoā Māori for soothing inflamed, irritated, and damaged skin. At Zoe’s Kawakawa, this traditional botanical knowledge is paired with sunflower oil to create a deeply restorative balm for eczema-prone and sensitive skin.

Zoe’s Kawakawa Balm combines infused kawakawa and mānuka leaves with sunflower oil to create a gentle, protective barrier that hydrates dry skin while helping calm irritation, itchiness, and redness associated with eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

The Power of Kawakawa

Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum) is a native New Zealand plant treasured for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used in rongoā Māori for skin irritation, wounds, and inflammation, kawakawa leaves contain naturally occurring active compounds including:

• Myristicin

• Elemicin

• Diayangambin

• Essential oils and polyphenols

These botanical compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-calming effects. Zoe’s Kawakawa highlights the role of myristicin and elemicin in helping reduce itching, discomfort, and inflammation linked to eczema flare-ups.

When infused slowly into sunflower oil, the beneficial compounds from the kawakawa and mānuka leaves are einfused into the balm, allowing them to absorb gently into dry or irritated skin.

Why Mānuka Makes the Blend Even More Powerful

Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) is another iconic New Zealand botanical known worldwide for its skin-supportive properties. Rich in natural antibacterial and antioxidant compounds, mānuka helps support compromised skin barriers that are common in eczema-prone skin.

In Zoe’s Kawakawa Balm, mānuka is infused alongside kawakawa to create a synergistic blend that supports:

• Skin barrier repair

• Reduced inflammation

• Protection from environmental irritation

• Hydration retention

• Support for healing damaged or cracked skin

The combination of kawakawa and mānuka creates a balanced botanical infusion that both soothes and protects sensitive skin.

The Benefits of Sunflower Oil for Eczema

A key part of Zoe’s unique formulation is New Zealand grown sunflower oil (Helianthus annuus seed oil). Sunflower oil is naturally rich in:

• Linoleic acid (Omega-6 fatty acid)

• Vitamin E (tocopherols)

• Skin-supportive antioxidants

Linoleic acid is especially important for eczema-prone skin because it helps strengthen the skin barrier and reduce moisture loss. Unlike heavier oils that can feel occlusive, sunflower oil is lightweight and gentle, making it ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin.

When infused with kawakawa and mānuka leaves, sunflower oil acts as both a carrier and a nourishing treatment in its own right, helping deliver the botanical actives while deeply moisturising dry, compromised skin.

A Natural Balm for Sensitive Skin

Zoe’s Kawakawa Balm is formulated without parabens, synthetic fragrances, dyes, or unnecessary additives, making it suitable for sensitive skin and gentle enough for the whole whānau.

People commonly use kawakawa balm to help soothe:

• Eczema

• Dermatitis

• Psoriasis

• Dry or cracked skin

• Nappy rash

• Insect bites

• Minor cuts and abrasions

• Sunburn and irritation

The balm creates a breathable protective layer that helps lock in moisture while supporting the skin’s natural healing process.

Honouring Rongoā Māori and Native Botanicals

Zoe’s Kawakawa acknowledges the importance of mātauranga Māori and the traditional healing knowledge connected to kawakawa. The healing properties of kawakawa were discovered and developed through generations of Māori knowledge and care for native plants and wellbeing.

By blending kawakawa and mānuka with nourishing botanical oils, Zoe’s Kawakawa continues this tradition in a modern balm designed to support sensitive, eczema-prone skin naturally.