First Nations Bush Medicine Plants
Many native Australian botanicals are used as healing bush medicines by First Nations people across Australia.
Modern-day research has found that native plant extracts offer cosmeceutical benefits, making them the perfect addition to Yaye’s range of bath and body products, including our body butter, body scrub, bath crystals, body wash, hand wash and bubble bath.
As an Aboriginal-owned brand from Central Australia, Yaye uses the native botanical extracts of plants growing in the Central Australian region.
The three native botanicals in our ranges are Aherre-Aherre, Irlweke and Utnerrenge.
Aherre-Aherre – Native Silky Lemongrass
Native Silky Lemongrass is used to relieve headaches, stomach pains and fever. It can also assist with the reduction of skin sores. Native Silky Lemongrass has anti-aging benefits. Elements contained within this extract can decrease oil build-up on the skin, reduce puffiness, diminish blemishes, and promote collagen renewal.
Three interesting facts about Native Silky Lemongrass:
1. The leaves and roots of the Native Silky Lemongrass can be combined with hot water to create a steam inhalation remedy for colds and chest congestion.
2. Native Silky Lemon Grass stalks and leaves may be used in tea or as a fragrant flavouring ingredient in soups, curries, sauces, marinades, and cakes.
3. Native Silky Lemongrass is one of 1,300 distinct types of native Australian grasses.
White Cypress Pine – Irlweke
White Cypress Pine is traditionally used to treat colds, flu, and respiratory infections. This extract has been paired with a cypress and sandalwood fragrance and can be found in Yaye’s White Cypress Pine & Sandalwood Range.
Three interesting facts about White Cypress Pine:
1. The wood of White Cypress Pine trees is highly valued for its unique aroma. It has a pleasant, spicy fragrance.
2. White Cypress Pine (Callitris glaucophylla) is known for longevity. They can live for up to 1,000 years, making them one of the longest-living tree species in Australia.
3. White Cypress Pine has serotinous cones that only release their seeds after a fire, which allows the tree to regenerate in post-fire environments quickly.
Emu Bush – Utnerrenge
Traditionally used to soothe dry and irritated skin, research has found that Emu bush assists with dark spot reduction and reduces the visible signs of aging. Yaye has paired Utnerrenge with a sweet vanilla caramel fragrance in our Sweet Emu Bush range.
Three interesting facts about Emu Bush:
1. Emu Bush has cultural significance to Indigenous Australians. Not only is it used for traditional medicines, but it is also often used for making tools and ceremonial objects.
2. Emu Bush is a highly diverse plant genus, with over two hundred species across Australia. These species provide essential habitats and food for wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.
3. Emu Bush contains various bioactive compounds, including antioxidants, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Emu bush is currently being studied for its potential use in treating diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
The use of traditional native Australian botanicals has inspired the Yaye range, which honours ancient Indigenous traditions and shares our beauty with the world. You can shop our full range here. Kele! Thanks for reading!
