The Wiliwili Tree (Erythrina sandwicensis) is a species of tree endemic to the Hawaiian islands, typically found in dry tropical forests.
It is under threat (as are other endemics to Hawaii) from competition with invasive species, but also one of the celebrated and sometimes cultivated species of the islands, being an integral part of Hawaiian legends and proverbs.
“Wiliwili” means “repeatedly twisted”, and likely refers to the twisted seed pods that form on the tree after the flowers have bloomed or the twisted nature of the branches. The flowers are showy and may vary in color from orange, salmon, green or white. The seeds stay attached after the seed pods have opened, and with the strong rainy season in Hawaii are knocked down to the forest floor, where they quickly sprout.
The Wiliwili tree grows to about 15-30 feet with gnarly bark and thorns along the length of the trunk—which is a strange evolution, since there are no large herbivores there.
The Wiliwili tree was favored by native Hawaiians due to its lightweight, buoyant wood, which made excellent outrigger canoes and long surfboards.
Additionally, the tree’s wood was sometimes utilized in the construction of drums and other ceremonial objects.
Today, the wood is also curved into necklaces, such as imitation whale-tooth necklaces, and the striking black and red seeds are used in lei making.
As the Wiliwili tree is in the legume family, it is capable of fixing nitrogen and improving soil, making a good tree for live fencing and land reclamation.
In traditional medicine in the Hawaiian islands, the Wiliwili tree were used for such conditions as skin infections, joint pain and respiratory conditions. The seeds were often ground into a paste for topical applications, while the bark and leaves were used in poultices to reduce swelling and inflammation. The tree was also considered a spiritual protector, especially in rituals related to healing.
The genus of Erythrina is interesting pharmacologically due to the presence of alkaloids, including tetracyclic alkaloids, which have been shown to present anxiolytic and anticonvulsant properties. Through scientific investigation, The Wiliwili tree has been found to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
One study found Wiliwili’s extracts to contain flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit significant anti-inflammatory activity. This aligns with its traditional use for reducing swelling.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.