PAU D'ARCO TINCTURE (TEMPORARILY OUT OF STOCK)
TEMPORARILY OUT OF STOCK
Family: Bignoniaceae
Genus: Tabebuia
Species: Tabebuia avellanedae (also Tabebuia impetiginosa)
Synonyms: Handroanthus impetiginosus, Tecoma curialis
Common Names: Pau d'Arco, Lapacho, Taheebo, Ipe Roxo, Pink Trumpet Tree
Parts Used: Inner bark
Main Actions: Antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Other Actions: Antioxidant, antiparasitic, immunostimulant, anticancer
Description: Pau d'Arco is a large, deciduous tree native to the rainforests of Central and South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina. It can grow up to 30 meters in height and is known for its beautiful pink or purple trumpet-shaped flowers. The medicinal part of the tree is the inner bark, which has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for a wide variety of ailments, particularly infections and inflammatory conditions.
Tribal and Herbal Medicine Uses: Pau d'Arco has been used in South American traditional medicine to treat infections, such as fungal and bacterial infections, as well as inflammatory conditions like arthritis. It is also used to support the immune system, treat wounds, and improve overall health and stamina. Indigenous people often prepared the inner bark as a tea or decoction for treating skin diseases, respiratory infections, and digestive issues.
Plant Chemicals: Naphthoquinones (lapachol, beta-lapachone), anthraquinones, flavonoids, quercetin, coumarins
Biological Activities and Clinical Research: Clinical studies have demonstrated the potent antifungal and antimicrobial properties of Pau d'Arco, particularly against Candida species. Its naphthoquinone content, specifically lapachol, has shown promise in laboratory studies for its anticancer, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory activities. Research also highlights Pau d'Arco's ability to boost immune function, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit tumor cell growth, although human clinical trials are limited.
Current Practical Uses: Pau d'Arco is primarily used for its antifungal properties, making it a popular remedy for Candida infections and other fungal conditions. It is also employed in herbal formulations to treat bacterial infections, inflammation, and as an immune booster. Pau d'Arco tea or capsules are commonly used for detoxification, digestive health, and skin conditions.
Main Preparation Method: Decoction (tea from boiled inner bark), capsules, tinctures
Main Actions (in order): Antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory
Main Uses: Treatment of fungal infections (especially Candida), bacterial infections, immune support, and inflammatory conditions like arthritis
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: Antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunostimulant, anticancer
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: Antiparasitic, wound healing, digestive support, blood purifier
Cautions: Pau d'Arco should be used with caution in large doses, as it can cause digestive discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea in sensitive individuals. The active compound lapachol may also have anticoagulant effects, so those on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders should avoid using Pau d'Arco without medical supervision. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Traditional Preparation: The inner bark is typically simmered in water for 15–20 minutes to make a decoction, which is consumed as a tea. It is also available in capsule or tincture form for internal use. Topical applications of the bark are sometimes used for skin infections or wounds.
Contraindications: Not recommended for individuals with bleeding disorders, those taking anticoagulant medications, or during pregnancy and breastfeeding without professional guidance.
Drug Interactions: May interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs, or medications that affect liver function. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended if taking other medications.
DO NOT exceed recommended doses, especially over long periods, as high amounts of Pau d'Arco may cause toxicity or digestive upset.