The Meaning of Kukui and Kukui Nut Lei’s

With the holidays and parties coming up, many are looking for an alternative to flower leis.   For those looking for a definition of what a lei is (from Wikipedia) :  “Lei is a Hawaiian word for garland or wreath made up of flowers or objects to be worn around the neck.  It is presented upon arrival or leaving as a symbol of affection.”

The Kukui nut lei is an option to think about, they now come with many different designs painted on the nuts and in various colors.  The Kukui Nut Tree is also known as the Candlenut Tree here in Hawai’i,  and in ancient Hawai’i the nuts were burned to provide light and the oil also has many cooking and medicinal uses.  

Interesting to note is that in Hawai’i the meaning of kukui is a symbol of enlightenment, protection and peace.  Now when you present a kukui nut lei to someone you can express this meaning to them.