Kawakawa: The Digestive Superleaf of Aotearoa

Why Kawakawa Matters Today

Gut health and immunity rank among the top health concerns in New Zealand these days. A growing number of people seek natural methods to boost digestion, ease bloating, and strengthen their immune system without depending on artificial supplements. This is where Kawakawa, a plant native to Aotearoa, comes into play, having been valued for centuries.

Māori people recognise Kawakawa as a leaf with healing properties. For generations, they used it in Rongoā Māori (traditional medicine) to ease stomach problems, purify the body, and support overall health. Now, health-conscious people are rediscovering this digestive wonder-leaf, blending traditional knowledge with research-backed benefits.

Have you ever looked up “Kawakawa benefits” online or wondered about the top herbal stomach remedies in New Zealand? This guide will tell you all you need to know about what makes Kawakawa unique—and how you can use its power in your everyday life.

What Makes Kawakawa So Special?

Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum) grows as a small tree in New Zealand. You can spot it by its heart-shaped leaves. For hundreds of years, Māori healers have used it to aid digestion, reduce swelling, and protect against infection.

Its strength comes from natural compounds found in the leaves, including myristicin and diayangambin. While the exact effects of these compounds in humans are still being studied, early findings suggest they may help reduce inflammation, fight harmful microbes, and support the body’s natural balance.

Kawakawa acts like a gentle digestive tonic. It helps settle the stomach after big meals, improves nutrient absorption, and can ease discomfort such as bloating or cramps. Because of its role in maintaining gut balance, it is also thought to support the immune system, making it a natural option for people wanting to stay healthy year-round.

(Related read: Horopito: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory Secret)

Kawakawa’s Benefits for Gut Health & Immunity

1. A Natural Digestive Aid
   Kawakawa tea or extracts have traditionally been used to ease indigestion, heartburn, and constipation. The leaf supports bile flow and digestion, helping the gut process food more efficiently.
   
2. Reduces Bloating & Stomach Discomfort
   Bloating after eating is common for many people. The natural oils in Kawakawa act as a mild relaxant for the digestive tract, reducing that heavy “full” feeling and easing discomfort.
   
3. Anti-Inflammatory Support
   Inflammation lies at the core of numerous digestive and immune issues. Compounds in Kawakawa appear to help reduce internal inflammation — not just in the stomach but across the body — although further clinical research is still needed to fully confirm these effects. (See also: Kūmarahou: Respiratory Health the Māori Way)
   
4. Strengthens Immunity
   A balanced gut plays a central role in immune defence. By supporting microbiome health and easing internal stress, Kawakawa helps the body resist colds, flu, and infections.
   
5. Supports Cleansing & Balance
   In traditional Māori medicine, Kawakawa was often used to cleanse the body and restore balance. Today, many still value it as a natural way to support the body’s own detox and repair processes.

(Learn more about: Māori Ingredients & Their Powers)

How to Add Kawakawa to Your Daily Routine

You might know about Kawakawa’s health perks — but how can you use it? Atutahi has the answer.

Atutahi makes refreshing herbal drinks that capture the power of Māori plants in a way that fits into modern life. The Atutahi Kawakawa Lemon Lime blend combines Kawakawa’s gut-friendly qualities with bright citrus flavours, offering a convenient and tasty way to enjoy this super-leaf without needing to brew your own tea.

Want a lighter option? The Atutahi Kawakawa Lemon Lime Sugar-Free variety delivers the same benefits, crafted for those who prefer a no-sugar choice without losing flavour.

Atutahi also celebrates other native superplants:

• Horopito Blackcurrant & Boysenberry – for natural anti-inflammatory support
• Kūmarahou Lemon Lime – for respiratory health
• Kānuka Beetroot Chutney – to bring immune support into meals

These drinks and foods go beyond refreshment — they’re a way to connect ancient wisdom with modern wellness. Want to try it out? Check out the whole Atutahi drinks selection or head to the stockists page to find them close by.

---

Frequently Asked Questions