During the months of December and January Phytofarm valley is full of Kānuka blossom – the white New Zealand Christmas tree. The bees are buzzing, and the smell is of sweet nectar. Kanuka has similar properties to Manuka but more useful for viral infections antimicrobial activity against Herpes simplex and other viral infections.

A tea made from Kanuka leaf and flowers is sweet and slightly drying – very pleasant. It can be blended with cooling peppermint for fever and inflammation during the flu or cold.
An infused oil is grassy green and applied topically as an astringent, antifungal for athlete’s foot and candida (thrush) — spasmolytic & anti-inflammatory on painful joints and muscles.

Culinary – Place sprigs on lamb when roasting – a delicious aroma and a pleasant change from rosemary.