The leaves of kawakawa, a member of the pepper tree family, were commonly used as a tea to help with digestion, as an anti-inflammatory tonic, and as a mild intoxicant. Kawakawa is the milder cousin of kava, the intoxicating root drunk in other Pacific Islands. It is probably the most commonly used native ingredient in drinks in New Zealand.
Health benefits of kawakawa include:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Rubifacient
- Depurative
- Analgesic
- Antimicrobial
- Kawakawa leaves were popular for numerous skin conditions – bruises, rheumatism, eczema, cuts & boils.
Note: If you have any specific health concerns or are taking any medication please discuss with your Doctor before taking any herbal preparations including herbal tea. Do not drink if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Kawakawa and Ginger Tonic is not suitable to take if you are pregnant, taking any blood thinners or if you have a stomach ulcer.
