Pau d'Arco

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about Pau d'Arco. Tabebuia is a large genus of tropical trees that grows worldwide. According to one source, the correct name for the source species is T. impetiginosa; however, the majority of biological and chemical studies of the plant refer to T. avellaneda. The commercial product is derived from the inner bark. The tree grows widely throughout tropical South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. It has a hard, durable, and attractive wood that is extremely resistant to insect and fungal attack.

Taheebo has been promoted for many years as an anticancer herb, and lay reports have claimed efficacy in a variety of cancers. Antifungal and antibiotic properties are also claimed in promotional literature, with both topical and oral dosing for candidiasis.

Common Names

Taheebo, Pau d'Arco, Lapacho Morado, Lapacho Colorado, Ipe Roxo

Latin Names

Tabebuia avellanedae

What It Is Used For

• Taheebo is widely used in alternative cancer therapy without sufficient scientific proof. It may be more useful in antifungal applications, although no clinical trials have been conducted for any indication.

How It Is Used

As a tea from loose bark boil 1 tsp in 1 cup water (8 oz) for 5 to 15 minutes. Drink 1 cup 2-8 times a day.

What the Science Says

• Taheebo bark has been used as an alternative cancer treatment; however, there are no clinical studies to support a specific dose.

Side Effects and Cautions

• Do not use taheebo with anticoagulants.

Sources

• Drugs.Com Web site. Accessed on February 7, 2009.
• From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Accessed on February 7, 2009.