Condition
Treatment Support
antifungal
Application
tincture, tea, capsule, tablet
Pau d’arco
(Tabebuia spp.)
Also know as Ipe roxo, Taheebo
Botanical Information
A large tree in the bignonia family from South America from the Bignonia family with large two-lipped pink or yellow flowers. Widely planted as an ornamental tree.
Working with Pau d’arco
Part(s) Used
Bark
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, tea bag, bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Pau d’arco is a South American herb renowned for its anti-fungal, anti-candida, and cancer-fighting properties. Its active ingredient, lapachol, has been shown to inhibit tumor growth. In studies the herb has been shown to have a moderate immune stimulating response. Pau d’arco is the inner bark of a tree from the Bignoniaceae family and contains quinones that are strongly antibacterial and anti-fungal.
Pau d’arco has a taste of ASTRINGENT, AROMATIC and a temperature of COOL.”
Historical Uses
Indigenous peoples of South America have used Pau d’arco for centuries to treat infections, inflammation, fever, and gastrointestinal problems. It was also traditionally applied topically to heal wounds and ulcers.
Modern Clinical Uses
Herbalists and naturopaths commonly recommend Pau d’arco for:
- Supporting immune health.
- Managing fungal infections (e.g., Candida).
- Addressing bacterial or viral infections.
- Treating inflammatory conditions, including arthritis.
- Assisting detoxification and gut health.
Chemistry
The bark contains active compounds, primarily naphthoquinones (lapachol, β-lapachone) and flavonoids, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Other components include quercetin and xyloidone.
Pharmacology
- Antimicrobial effects: Naphthoquinones inhibit bacterial and fungal growth by disrupting their metabolism.
- Anticancer properties: β-Lapachone has shown potential in promoting apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain cancer cells.
- Anti-inflammatory activity: Flavonoids and naphthoquinones reduce inflammatory markers.
- Antioxidant action: Compounds scavenge free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Clinical Trials
- Anticancer research: Preliminary studies suggest β-lapachone has potential against cancers like breast and prostate, but human trials are limited.
- Antifungal and antimicrobial efficacy: Some studies confirm activity against Candida species and other pathogens. However, human data are sparse.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Animal and in vitro studies show promise, but robust clinical trials are needed.
Summary
Pau d’arco has a rich traditional use and promising pharmacological properties. While modern research supports some of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, clinical evidence is still emerging. Its use should be approached cautiously, particularly at high doses, and under professional supervision.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Pau d’arco is generally considered safe in moderate doses, but potential side effects include:
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea at high doses.
Risk of bleeding due to blood-thinning properties (especially with anticoagulants).
Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
High doses of lapachol have been linked to toxicity in animal studies, including liver and kidney damage.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid pau d’arco due to insufficient safety data.
Consult a qualified practitioner for personalized recommendations.
Conditions treated with Pau d’arco
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
antibactial
Application
tea, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
antifungal
Application
tea, tincture
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
