Kawakawa

Perspective - through the holes.

Kawakawa - the leaves with caterpillar holes in them are considered to be the most 'effective'.  Something is released in the leaves when the Kawakawa caterpillar chews them that increases the medicinal value of the leaf.

This particular Kawakawa is native to New Zealand and was used as a traditional medicinal plant of the Māori.  An infusion made from the leaves or roots was used or its leaves were chewed to relieve toothache, and wounds were often bound in kawakawa leaves. The sweet edible yellow berries (most often found in summer on female trees) of the plant were eaten as a diuretic.  Kawakawa is used in many topical ointments and creams - it's wonderful for skin conditions, itching, bites etc.  The dried leaves also make a great tea with a slightly peppery flavour.