The Polynesians probably found this plant growing in Hawaii when they came here, although it grows in many other places in the world.

The bark of the mature roots was chewed and the juice swallowed for sore throat, this was done 3 or times -- until the sore throat was gone.

The roots, leaves, buds and flowers were used, with other plants, for chronic cases of asthma. All the plants were pounded together, the juice pressed out, and the liquid strained. Then the strained juice was heated. This liquid was taken every morning for 5 days.