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Taramea is the prized resinous exudate obtained from native Aciphylla plants (speargrass) identified as a taonga by Ng��i Tahu M��ori in their Treaty of Waitangi tribunal claim Settlement. Ng��i Tahu recognised two types of Aciphylla, the larger was known as taramea and used as a fragrance, while the tap root of the smaller type, called papa��, was eaten but not used as kakara (fragrance). The gum of the taramea is called ���ware��� or ���wai-whenua���, and was often spoken as ���ware-o-te-taramea���. Plants were traditionally tapped in the evening by cutting or using fire. In the morning the exuded resin was gathered and processed. To preserve the aroma it was saturated in hinu-weka (woodhen fat) or the fat of other native bird or animal species (tui, kiore) and worn in a pouch (hei-taramea) close to the body. Taramea was used to dress the hair and rub on the body and became a sought after trade item with northern tribes. Scientific studies on taramea plants include those relating to plant morphology, taxonomy, genetics, ecology and phytochemistry. A resurgence of interest in taramea is supporting further scientific studies to define the chemical composition of this taonga plant. |
