WAILUKU, MAUI — On December 27, 2024, Nohona Health celebrated a bountiful harvest by distributing over 100 pounds of fresh ʻōlena (Hawaiian turmeric) to community members during a giveaway event at the J. Walter Cameron Center. The event aimed to share the abundance of this powerful traditional plant, known for its cultural, culinary, and medicinal uses, while supporting community health and resilience.
The ʻōlena was harvested by Nohona Health staff and volunteers as part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to restore and share Native Hawaiian plants. Community members were invited to pick up free ʻōlena for use in cooking, lāʻau lapaʻau (traditional medicine), and cultural practices.
“ʻŌlena is a cornerstone of our traditional healing and local food systems,” said Cory Lehano, Executive Director of Nohona Health. “We are grateful to be able to share this harvest with our Maui ʻohana, and we hope it inspires families to incorporate more traditional plants into their daily lives.”
The giveaway at Cameron Center drew a strong turnout from community members eager to bring home fresh, locally grown ʻōlena. The event also provided an opportunity for education about the many uses of ʻōlena, from immune support to culinary applications.
Nohona Health extends a big mahalo to the volunteers, staff, and community partners who made this distribution possible, and looks forward to future harvests and opportunities to share Native Hawaiian plants with the community.
For updates on upcoming events and programs, visit nohonahealth.org.