The Kanuka (Kunzea Ericoides) is an indigenous species to New Zealand. Being one of our native plants it has been used by New Zealanders for years for various purposes.
Many people have heard of Manuka and it is quite commonly confused with the Kanuka species. Both belonging to the Tee Tree family, we can tell apart Kanuka by its soft leaves and slightly smaller flowers and seeds.
Kanuka can be found all throughout New Zealand, although high concentrations are located on Three Kings Islands, Great Barrier Island, Aupori Peninsula, Dunedin, Otago and Stuart Island. Within this range, Kanuka is widespread ranging from coastal scrub and sand dunes through lowland and montane forest, with one member of this complex reaching 2000 metres above sea level.
With its small but abundant flowers it can colour a whole hillside white, almost giving the appearance of snow cover. It is widespread particularly in coastal scrub and colonising land after a fire or reverting to a natural state after being used for agriculture. In New Zealand Kanuka can grow to around 10m high.
Green parakeets use the leaves and bark of Kanuka trees to rid themselves of parasites. Apart from ingesting the material, they also chew it, mix it with preen gland oil and apply it to their feathers.
Kanaka essential oil is antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti inflammatory and has a pleasant perfume. It is known to have been used for the relief of swelling and muscular pain, for sprains, strains and injuries. It helps clear inflammation and can be used as a skin tonic and for relaxation.
These incredible benefits of the Kanuka plant are harnessed in our dog shampoo and dog balm products to provide a unique, natural product perfect for any pet lover.