Tānekaha


Tānekaha is a slow-growing evergreen conifer endemic to New Zealand. Its common name ‘Celery Pine’ comes from the celery-like foliage of this graceful tree. Historically, Tānekaha bark was used as a tanning agent and for the production of a reddish-brown dye.

 

Tānekaha was used medicinally as an astringent and antimicrobial agent by Māori people and early European settlers. Decoctions of the inner bark were used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery and internal haemorrhage. Externally, it was used as a healing remedy for burns as well as for boils, abscesses and septic infections. The anti-microbial action of tannic acid has been well documented, and it has been shown to be effective against a range of bacteria, yeasts and viruses.

 

Botanical name: Phyllocladus trichomanoides 

Common name: Celery Pine, Toatoa

Part used: Leaf

The combination of astringent and antimicrobial actions makes this plant an ideal addition to mouthwash formulations. The strong astringent action helps tighten and heal the gum tissue while the anti-microbial action helps kill the bacteria responsible for dental caries, as well as conditions such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. In vitro tests conducted on preparations containing a combination of Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and Tānekaha were shown to be effective against the common oral bacteria Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus mitis, and Actinomyces naeslundii.

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Frequently asked questions

What is tānekaha?


Tānekaha (Phyllocladus trichomanoides), also known as celery pine, is a native conifer found only in New Zealand. It’s a medium-sized forest tree that can reach around 25 metres tall, growing in lowland forest from Te Paki in the far north down through the North Island, as well as in northern Marlborough and Nelson. Its Māori name is often interpreted as meaning strong man or strong in growth, a nod to its tough, flexible timber.

What is tānekaha used for?


Tānekaha is traditionally used as an astringent remedy for the digestive system. Its tannin-rich bark was historically valued as an astringent for dysentery, and the bark is thought to contain around 23 to 28% tannin. In rongoā Māori, tānekaha was also used as a liver tonic and to help with vomiting. Its tannins are also responsible for the bark’s antimicrobial action and bitter, astringent taste.

Why is tānekaha called celery pine?


Tānekaha gets its common name from its unusual “leaves,” which look remarkably like celery leaves. These aren’t true leaves at all but phylloclades, flattened, leaf-like shoots that do most of the tree’s photosynthesis. Its real leaves are tiny and scale-like, and only stay green for a short time before turning brown. This feature makes the Phyllocladus genus unique among New Zealand’s native conifers.

Was tānekaha used as a dye?


Yes, tānekaha has a fascinating history as a natural dye. Māori pounded the bark and soaked flax garments and mats in the pulp before bringing the mixture to the boil. In the late 1800s, the bark was exported in large quantities to Germany for red and pink dyes and to London for making kid gloves. During the First World War, it was even used to dye soldiers’ uniforms khaki.

How do you take tānekaha, and is it safe?

Traditionally, the bark was prepared by boiling a few broken sticks or pieces of bark in water. Today, tānekaha is most conveniently taken as a liquid extract, which offers a consistent, measured dose. Always follow the dosage directions on the label. Because it’s high in tannins, tānekaha may cause stomach upset in some people and can reduce the absorption of iron and some medicines, so take it at least two hours apart from other medication. Research on tānekaha is limited, so check with your healthcare professional before use if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, and check the label’s age guidance before giving it to children.