Botanical Overview
Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis) belongs to the Actinidiaceae family. While not among the most extensively documented medicinal plants, this species has recorded uses that warrant attention from researchers and practitioners. This species belongs to the Actinidiaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is one of some 40 related species of the genus Actinidia, and the origin of most commercial varieties of kiwifruit.
Family Context
The Actinidiaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Cat Powder — 1 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Kiwi has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Belgium, Switzerland, China, Germany, Japan, and others.
Traditional Uses
Kiwi has been traditionally used for urinary tract health, pain and inflammation, and fever management, among other applications.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Pain and inflammation.
- Rheumatism
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Fever management.
- Fever
Febrifuge preparations are typically administered as hot teas to induce perspiration, which helps the body regulate temperature. The patient is kept warm and encouraged to rest while the herb promotes sweating.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities