Candlenut

Candlenut

Kukui — the luminous tree whose oil comforts skin

Silvery kukui leaves brighten a green valley even beneath clouds. The tree's oil-rich nuts once offered lamp light, polish, and a silky layer of comfort for sun-touched skin.

Simple salve: blend cosmetic-grade kukui nut oil with a little melted beeswax, pour into a clean jar, and let it cool before smoothing a small amount onto dry skin. Never eat raw kukui nuts; they are toxic and strongly laxative unless expertly prepared.