Botanical Overview
New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides) belongs to the Aizoaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Aizoaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is often cultivated as a leafy vegetable.
Geographic Distribution
New Zealand Spinach has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Spain, France, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, and others.
Traditional Uses
New Zealand Spinach has been traditionally used for immune system support.
Immune system support.
- Cancer
Immune support involves taking the herb as a decoction or tincture over extended periods. The active compounds stimulate immune cell activity and provide antimicrobial protection.
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:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities