KIWI Overview Information
Kiwi is a plant that produces fruit. The fruit is used as a food and as a medicine.
Medicinally, the fruit is used for treating asthma.
In foods, kiwi is used as a meat tenderizer and an ingredient in some sports drinks. It is often eaten as a fruit.
How does it work?
There is information that suggests the antioxidant effects of vitamin C or other compounds that are found in high concentrations in kiwi might benefit people with asthma.
- Improving lung function in people with asthma. Although study results are mixed, there is some evidence that eating vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, including kiwi, might improve lung function in people with asthma.
- Asthma. Although study results are mixed, there is some evidence that eating vitamin C-rich citrus fruits, including kiwi, once or twice per week might improve lung function in people with asthma.
- Constipation. Early research suggests that eating two kiwi fruits per day for 4 weeks increases the number of bowel movements in people with constipation.
- High blood pressure. Early research suggests that eating three kiwi fruits per day for 8 weeks reduces blood pressure more than eating one apple per day in people with high blood pressure.
- Other conditions.
KIWI Side Effects & Safety
Kiwi is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in food amounts. In people who are allergic to kiwi, it can cause allergic reactions such as trouble swallowing (dysphagia), vomiting, and hives.
Special Precautions & Warnings:Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Kiwi is LIKELY SAFE for pregnant and breast-feeding women when taken in food amounts.
Bleeding disorders: Kiwi might slow blood clotting and increase bleeding. In theory, kiwi might make bleeding disorders worse.
Allergies: Kiwi may cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to other fruits, plants, or spices such as avocado, birch pollen, fig, hazelnut, latex, poppy seed, rye, sesame seed, or wheat. Avoid eating kiwi fruit or taking kiwi products if you are allergic to any of these products.
Surgery. Kiwi might slow blood clotting in some people. In theory, kiwi might increase the risk for bleeding during surgical procedures. Stop eating kiwi or using kiwi products at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
The appropriate dose of kiwi for use as treatment depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for kiwi. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.