You should know by now that there is already a total number of fifty-two thousand eight hundred eighty-five medicinal plants present across the globe. However, in this article, what we will be talking about is the legendary ti leaf plant. Although you have already seen a ti leaf plant, for sure, with just the name, you may not be able to recognize it. If you have seen people dancing the hula dance, the leaves that are used on the hula ski comes from the ti leaf plant. For the remainder of this article, we will be discussing about what a ti leaf plant is, therefore, if you find this interesting, then you better continue reading until the end.
If you were given a chance to visit Hawaii in one of your travels, for sure, you have noticed the country’s unique landscape and flora as well. Among all the plants that you can see across Hawaii is the ti leaf plant, which is known for having a big place in the culture of the region. There are several high-acclaimed historians out there who claim that the ti leaf plant is not actually a native to the islands of Hawaii. As a matter of fact, these historians claimed that the Polynesians are the ones who brought the ti leaf plant to Hawaii when they settled there around four hundred to five hundred A.D. Polynesians are said to be great mariners therefore, they have the tendency of leaving their islands when the conditions will not allow them to farm or when they became overpopulated.
Since they are aware that their journey will take a long time, they brought with them some necessary supplies like tools, chicken, dogs, pigs and also, plants which they can cultivate in the new island. To serve as their main vessel for transportation, they use dugout canoes that were crafted perfectly. Out of all the plants they brought with them when they settled in Hawaii is the ti leaf plant. The survival of the ti leaf plant in the long journey is said to become of the special meaning it holds.
Based on the folklore, the ti leaf plant is known for being a sacred plant for the Hawaiian God of Fertility, Lono as well as the Hawaiian Goddess of Hula, Laka. And since the ti leaf plant holds a great deal of significance to the Gods, priests are utilizing them during ceremonies as a way to ward off any evil spirits. This is also the reason why ancient Hawaiians are using the said leaves as medicine, food and utensils as well.