Emu Bush (E.alternifolia) also known as Native Honeysuckle

Parts of this plant have been used as a traditional medicine. A small quantity was used in a preparation for treating colds and inflammation of the throat, an infusion of the leaves as a soporific, and other parts combined as a topical treatment.

Leaf extracts have shown substantial antifungal (particularly against the Cryptococcus fungi) and antibacterial activity against multiple pathogens. It seems to be effective against Gram-positive bacteria but ineffective against Gram-negative. Leaf extracts and isolated compounds tested for antiviral activity report substantial activity. It has also been tested against clinically relevant yeast and mould species and was similarly active against several Candida species. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds are the main antioxidant phytochemical molecules found in plants In addition to their noteworthy antioxidant activities, multiple other therapeutic effects have been documented for flavonoids, including antimicrobial, anti-proliferative/anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anti-mutagenic properties. Notably, the consumption of foods rich in flavonoids decreases the incidences of some chronic diseases, including (but not limited to) Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative disorders as well. Emu bush has shown to contain the two different flavonoids.

Weeping Emu Bush (E.longifolia) also known as Berrigan

Berrigan is one of the most important plant species to Aboriginal people, especially to those living in Central Australia. It was used in initiation ceremonies, to line graves, for tanning water bags and was placed in the headbands of warriors. It also had medicinal uses such as to treat colds and headaches, and was used to cleanse and strengthen new-born babies.

This plant is often considered to be one of the most sacred and mystical plants. It was/is the plant used for traditionally smoking ceremonies and recent studies have isolated the component when smoked/burnt which shows medicinal benefits. Traditional therapeutic uses include treatments for colds, headaches, sores, skin ailments, eye conditions, boils and muscle ache. Its also been said to relive itchy skin, skin lesions and scabies. Decoctions of the leaves have been known to be applied as an eye wash and antiseptic for ophthalmic problems. Essential oils produced by hydro-distillation of leaves show good inhibitory activity against human dermal pathogens (Trichophytons) along with anti-fungal activity (from the borneol content of the oils), indicating that it may be useful for treating ringworm, tinea, and other fungal skin infections. It has also been reported that its oils were also effective against Candida albicans, possibly indicating that this species may be a good general fungicide. 

Dried leaves of both varieties are available at Taste Australia Bush food Shop>>>

Burdekin plums nutritional value is vitamin C, minerals, and dietary fibre containing nearly 5 times the antioxidant content of blueberries.

Burdekin Plum Season is December through to April. When ripe, the plums can be eaten fresh, sliced and added to fruit salads, turned into jams, jellies and wine. They can be cooked down to make sauces or diced and used to make gravy for meats such as venison, kangaroo, and emu. They also work well as a substitute for rhubarb in fruit pies.

The taste ranges from mild, sweet-tart to tart.

Burdekin Plum Freeze dried powder is available at Taste Australia Bush Food Shop

Bush Tomato

Whole Bush Tomato

Crushed Bush Tomato

This arid lands fruit has been a staple food of the indigenous desert dwellers of Central Australia for many thousands of years.  A rich source of minerals, particularly potassium, it is also high in vitamin C. The traditional harvesting method is to collect the sun dried fruits of the small bush in the autumn and winter months. In the dried form, Bush Tomato can be stored for several years.

Bush Tomato has a strong sun dried tomato, caramel and tamarillo flavour and aroma which is just delicious in recipes with tomato, cheese or eggs.  Also goes well with Salmon and stronger flavoured white or game meats. Can be used as a Dukkah or crusting for meats.

Buy Whole and Crushed Bush Tomato >>HERE>>

Kakadu plum (also called the Gubinge, Billygoat Plum or Murunga) is a small deciduous tree found growing wild extensively through out the subtropical woodlands of the Northern Territory and Western Australia.  It bears abundant crop of small plum-like fruits.

The fruit has a very high content of vitamin C, in fact holds the World Record. It’s full of antioxidants, folic acid and iron.

100gm packets of frozen Kakadu Plums can be purchased >>HERE>>

Gumbi Gumbi  is a  resilient desert shrub which grows in inland Australia.

Research and tests have shown that Gumbi Gumbi contains Saponins, Tannins and Flavonoids.  Saponins have many health benefits.  Studies have illustrated the beneficial effects on blood cholesterol levels, cancer, bone health and stimulation of the immune system.  Some of the activities attributed to flavonoids and tannin include: anti-allergic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral.

In the past few year stannins have also been studied for their potential effects against cancer through different mechanisms.

Gumbi Gumbi has been reported to assist in the treatment of: Cancer, Emphysema, Meniere’s Disease, Haemorrhoids, Chronic Psoriasis, Chronic Eczema, Skin Disorders, Diverticulosis, Angina, Chronic Fatigue, Vein Conditions, Acne, Skin Repair, Cramps, Depression, Anti Convulsant