Milking may be done repeatedly if left on the plant. To utilize the liquid from the inflorescence: use a cup or jar and hand-squeeze the inflorescence until the juice comes out.

Despite its tendency to spread, it has not been included on any invasive species lists and has been on the islands for over 1,000 years (i.e.: it’s generally not a problematic plant). ‘Awaphui can form dense thickets, so allow them to have a lot of space, or plan to manage them annually. From these rhizomes, the plant re-sprouts in spring, when the weather is ideal for them. Like some other gingers, ‘awapuhi dies back annually to store its energy in its roots/rhizomes. This ginger relative grows to heights of about two to four feet. Perhaps the most well known use for ‘awapuhi is the inflorescence liquid as shampoo or conditioner for the hair and skin, as it provides a soothing, shiny and smoothing effect. The liquid from the inflorescence is drinkable. The rhizome has traditionally been used in medicinal applications as an anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal, de-wormer, and for various types of pain management.

The shoots, rhizomes and inflorescence liquid are all consumable. Zingiber zerumbet, ‘Awapuhi or Shampoo Ginger, is a perennial multipurpose herbaceous plant.

Red button ginger edible