The pau d’arco tree is native to Central and South America. It can reach a height of 125 feet and is recognized by its violet-colored flowers. Pau d’arco has been used medicinally for treating many conditions, including pain, arthritis, inflammation of the prostate gland, fever, dysentery, ulcers and various types of cancer.
Within the inner bark of the tree contains the chemical substance lapachol, which has been proven to kill several types of viruses, bacteria and fungi in test tubes. It should be noted that these same effects might not occur in humans. Other studies have shown pau d’arco to be effective in treating certain types of cancer, but researchers have received mixed results. In many instances, the amount of pau d’arco needed to reduce cancer cells would be toxic for humans.
Pau d’arco can be bought as tablets, a tincture and dried bark tea. However, the medicinal properties within pau d’arco poorly dissolve in water and a tea is not always recommended. When taking pau d’arco as a treatment method, it is important to make sure the form you are taking contains tabebuia avellanedae as an ingredient.
The use of pau d’arco should only be performed under a doctor’s close supervision. Infants and children should avoid taking pau d’arco and adults should be cautious with the amount they ingest. Side effects are uncommon when pau d’arco is taken at recommended doses, but they can include anemia, diarrhea and dizziness. Pregnant and nursing women should also avoid using pau d’arco.
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