Kaya (aka. Japanese Nutmeg-Yew; Torreya nucifera, T. spp.) is a coniferous tree slow growing to about 75 feet, native to Japan and East Asia. Kaya trees have cultural and historical significance to people of Japan.
The trees produce edible seeds that are slightly sweet with an aromatic flavor, which are consumed as a snack, or sometimes pressed for their oil content. Another common name is “Nutmeg Yew”, as its seeds resemble Nutmeg (though unrelated) and were used as a spice in some Asian countries in a similar manner.
Kaya also produces a wood that is prized especially for making specific Japanese game boards, such as Shogi boards, due to the color and sound of the wood when playing the game. Today the Kaya trees of Japan are protected due to overharvesting.
The dried seed of the Kaya tree (also called Torreya seed, fei zi) has a long use in traditional medicine, especially for parasitic infections, diabetes, constipation and hemorrhoids.
Through scientific investigation, Kaya has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, apoptotic, antilipid, antibacterial, anti-amoebic, anti-parasitic, hepatoprotective and neuroprotective activities.
A recent study found Kaya to exhibit potent antiparacitidal effects against the nematode parasite, Trichinella spiralis. Another study found it to improve adipocyte differentiation by regulating the activation of adipogenic transcription factors. Biflavonoids from Kaya have also been found to be active against the SARS-associated coronavirus.
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**This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician.
The Antiparasitic Nutmeg Yew
