Limu (algae)


Limu or Rimu is a general Polynesian term for edible plants living underwater, such as seaweed, or plants living near water, like algae. In Hawaii, there are approximately one hundred names for kinds of limu, sixty of which can be matched with scientific names. Hundreds of species or marine algae were once found in Hawaii. Many limu are edible, and used in the cuisine throughout most of polynesia.

Uses

Alongside fish and poi, limu was seen as a major part of Native Hawaiian cuisine. In ancient Hawaii, 75 types of limu were used for food, which is more than the 35 used in Japanese cuisine, which is also well-known for its use of seaweed.
In modern times, limu are often used as a condiment and in raw fish dishes, such as poke.
Limu was used in ho‘oponopono, the ancient Hawaiian process of conflict resolution. Injured and accused parties gathered to pray, seek forgiveness and eat limu kala leaves as a symbol of reconciliation. It is also used in traditional hula attire and as medicine.

Types

Limu comes from multiple genera
Limu has become increasingly difficult to find because of over-picking, pollution, and urban development, especially construction in watersheds. Many important kinds of limu grow best in brackish water where fresh water empties into the sea. Another threat to limu is the spread of marine alien invasive species, such as members of the genus Kappaphycus, Graciliara salicornia, Avrainvillea amadelpha, Hypnea musciformis and Acanthophora spicifera''.