Tag: Kawakawa

In traditional Māori medicine, or rongoā māori, the entire kawakawa plant is valued for its healing properties. While its heart-shaped leaves are more widely studied, the berries from the female kawakawa plant also offer unique benefits, prized for their diuretic effects and distinctive flavor. This guide delves into the specific benefits of kawakawa berries, as informed by traditional wisdom and recent interest.

While the internet contains conflicting information, reputable studies and centuries of traditional use indicate that kawakawa is not inherently poisonous when consumed in moderate, food-grade amounts. It is a highly valued native New Zealand plant with a wide range of medicinal and culinary applications.