When white settlers arrived in New Zealand, they cleared the land for agriculture by burning the natural flora, but manuka, a resilient scrub-type tree with petite white flowers, quickly grew back, holding onto the soil and preventing erosion. The steam-distilled leaves and twigs of manuka produce an essential oil historically used by the Māori and Kakariki parakeets, who use it to rid themselves of parasites. Manuka offers strength and resilience during times of suffering, restoring energy and providing emotional support. It promotes healing, purification, and protection, helping individuals to focus, stay calm, and avoid self-destructive behaviors. Manuka encourages peaceful resolutions and win-win situations, resonating with the goddess Athena's tactics for victory. It fosters reverence, gratitude, and compassion, helping to see the light in others even during their suffering, and reminding them of their inherent goodness.