Video 14 in the Introduction to Ethnobotany series. Presented by Isabella Aiona Abbott.
Some cultures have learned to use marine resources, including marine plants. Among Pacific Island cultures, Hawaiians have developed more uses of algae as food and medicine. The reasons for this are unclear, however, Phycologist (algae expert) Isabella Aiona Abbott has some logical hypotheses based upon the 'ai kapu and traditional practices of Hawaiian women. This episode discusses some of the species of algae that are eaten in Hawai'i and the life experiences of Isabella Abbott as a native Hawaiian scientist.