Olena, or turmeric Olena is a member of the Ginger family, and has colored bracts in the flower head, like many gingers.
Leaves unfurl at the base and disappear for awhile during winter months while the plant is dormant.
Olena root, which is golden orange, was the source of an excellent dye for kapa. The crushed root extract was dropped into ears for earache treatment. The cooked rhizome was used as a Tuberculosis treatment. Mixed with sea water, an extract of 'olena was sprinkled in purification rites. Photos by Priscilla Millen.