🌊Hawaiian & Polynesian Medicine

Pandanus Fruit (Hala)

fruit

Pandanus Fruit (Hala)

Pandanus tectorius is a species of Pandanus (screwpine) that is native to Malesia, Papuasia, eastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It grows in the coastal lowlands typically near the edge of the ocean. Common names in English include thatch screwpine, Tahitian screwpine, hala tree and pandanus. The fruit is edible and sometimes known as hala fruit.

Conditions addressed

Digestive IssuesBlood SugarImmune SupportSkin HealthFatigue

How to use

½–1 cup fresh daily, or 2–3 tbsp dried
  • Eat fresh, raw, or dried.
  • Can be blended into smoothies, juiced, or added to salads and grain bowls.

Interactions & contraindications

May affect blood sugar

Watch for: Insulin and oral diabetes medications (metformin, sulfonylureas)

Additive blood-sugar-lowering effects can risk hypoglycemia — monitor glucose closely.

May affect immune activity

Watch for: Immunosuppressants (for transplant or autoimmune conditions)

Immune-stimulating herbs can work against immunosuppressive therapy.

May have a stimulant effect

Watch for: Other caffeine-containing products, MAOIs, and stimulant medications (for ADHD or weight loss)

Additive stimulant effects can raise heart rate and blood pressure.