Hawaiian Kukui Nut Oil History
The Kukui (Candlenut) tree was brought to Hawaii from Asia by the early Polynesian settlers. The Kukui tree has always had spiritual significance to Hawaiians, giving them hope for renewal. So much, that today it is even Hawaii’s state tree.
The Kukui Nut was reserved for Royality
The Kukui nut was worn by chiefs and kings known as Ali’I. Ali’I were the high chiefs of the islands, each island had their own Ali’I. They governed using divine power called mana and ruled above the priests and commoners. Mana could be described as cosmic life force, chi, the stuff souls are made, spirit. Mana is the stuff from which magic originates and resides in all living things. They wore Kukui Nut Leis polished with Kukui Nut Oil as a way of showing their social status. These are the same Kukui Nut Leis that greet visitors to the enchanted Hawaiian Islands.
Used for Surfing, Light and Keeping Island Time
Kukui Nut Oil was used on boats and canoes to waterproof them. Since 1896 is was used on surfboards and used in a “surf building ritual” prior to hitting the waves. Kukui Nut Oil was also originally used for lamp oil to create light and even for keeping track of time. Early Hawaiians would line up 5 Kukui Nuts and light them one at a time, hence why they are also known as candlenuts. A common situation would be to tell a loved one to be home before the second Kukui nut burned out.
Kukui Nut Oil Traditional Healing Benefits
Kukui Nut oil has many traditional healing benefits. For thousands of years, Hawaiians have used kukui nut oil for its moisturizing benefits. It promoted natural healing and helped soothe the skin when exposed to harsh elements like the sun, wind and salt water. Kukui nut oil was used on the scalp for its stimulating effects on hair growth, used to soothe sunburn, windburn, acne, eczema and other problematic skin conditions. Modern Hawaiians also treasure Kuku Nut Oil, from natural Kukui Nut soaps to luxurious natural Kukui Nut Body Oils, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Hawaiian Kukui Nut Oil today.
Kukui Nut in the World Market
Today Kukui Nuts are harvested mainly for the oil and to make traditional leis. Hawaiians have so many uses for the kukui nut oil that it is mainly harvested for the local markets only. However, Kukui nut oil products are starting to find their way to the rest of the world via the internet.
If you would like to bring home and enjoy the benefits of Hawaii’s best kept secret, check out www.hawaiianbathbody.com, they have spa quality Kukui Nut Oil products that are 100% natural and made right on the North Shore of Oahu Hawaii in the heart of the old Waialua Sugar Mill.