Island Life 11-21-12

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Dwapuhi kuahiwi (Zingiber zerumbet, also referred to as shampoo ginger) bloom during November 2011 in Waipio Valley. The ancient Polynesians brought this plant to Hawaii in their canoes. The fragrant fluid in the flowers was used to shampoo and condition the hair and to massage the skin. The roots were used for medicinal purposes and dried to make a fragrant powder. Ruby Tzimeas/Community Contributor

Dwapuhi kuahiwi (Zingiber zerumbet, also referred to as shampoo ginger) bloom during November 2011 in Waipio Valley. The ancient Polynesians brought this plant to Hawaii in their canoes. The fragrant fluid in the flowers was used to shampoo and condition the hair and to massage the skin. The roots were used for medicinal purposes and dried to make a fragrant powder. Ruby Tzimeas/Community Contributor