Pau d’arco has a long history of use in herbal medicine for home remedies and natural cures. Because it has such varied uses as a folk remedy, it is good to keep a supply of it on hand for the treatment of common illnesses and unexpected diseases.
Scientific Name
Once known as T. Avellanedae, Pau d’arco is now scientifically referred to as Tabebuia Impetiginosa. Other common names used for it include:
- Taheebo
- Tajy
- Lapacho
- Ipe
- Tahuari
- Trumpet tree
Description
Pau d’arco grows as a large canopy tree in its native Amazon rain forest, as well as in other tropical areas throughout Latin and South America. It can grow to be up to 30 meters in height and the very base of the tree can grow to be a diameter of two to three meters. The inner bark is what is used medicinally in most cases.
Typical Preparations
Pau d’arco can be used in various forms including tablets, extracts, capsules, tinctures, tea and powdered bark.
Common Uses of Pau D’arco
Studies have shown that pau d’arco can be an excellent antibacterial and anti fungal treatment. It’s being studied as an anti cancer herb and is known as an effective agent against Candida overgrowth, as well. The main uses of this herb are as follows:
- As a blood thinner
- Treatment of yeast, Candida and other types of fungal infections (used as a douche, topically or taken by mouth).
- Treatment of dermatitis and psoriasis
- For treatment of cancer and leukemia
- Colds, viral infections, flu and upper respiratory problems
- Treating sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea and syphilis
Other common uses of pau d’arco include:
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Urinary tract infections
- Poor circulation
- Allergies
- Fever
- Malaria
- Rheumatism
- Cough
- Anemia
- Colitis
- Diabetes
- Boils
- Snake bites
Precautions
Side effects can accompany the use of pau d’arco and it should not be used in high doses. Also, it is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. A few of the possible side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Nausea
- May cause excessive bleeding in people with hemophilia
Although scientists continue to study pau d’arco as a treatment for cancer, it is still a controversial herb, which is known to have varying results in cancer studies.
As with all other medicinal herbs, it is recommended that pau d’arco be used in consultation and under the supervision of a qualified herbalists. It should be further advised that it does not necessarily interact well with all other herbs, supplements or certain pharmaceutical medications, such as herbal or prescription blood thinners. Therefore, it is important for patients under a doctor’s care to consult with their physician before using pau d’arco.
Individuals who understand the healing power of folk remedies have effectively used home remedies and natural cures for generations. Herbs, such as pau d’arco, maintain high recommendations because they have been successful in treating a variety of ailments without the use of synthetic medications. Although natural remedies can be used to heal the body, those who are serious about achieving optimal health are most strongly advised to target a lifestyle focused on holistic health strategies in an effort to bring balance to the mind, body and spirit, while helping the body defend itself against illness and disease.
