Rootwork

Pau D'Arco

Tabebuia impetiginosa

BignoniaceaeCentral and South America, from Mexico to northern Argentina

Description

overall appearance

Pau d'arco is a large deciduous tree reaching 100-125 feet in height with a straight trunk and spreading crown.

roots

Deep taproot system with extensive lateral roots that can extend far from the trunk, adapted to forest conditions.

stem

Straight trunk can reach 3-4 feet in diameter, covered with deeply furrowed, grayish-brown bark. Inner bark is the medicinal part.

leaves

Palmately compound leaves with 5-7 leaflets arranged like fingers on a hand. Leaflets are oblong with smooth margins.

flowers

Showy pink to purple trumpet-shaped flowers appear in terminal clusters before new leaves emerge, typically during dry season.

fruits/seeds

Long, narrow capsules split to release numerous winged seeds that are dispersed by wind.

Active Compounds

Naphthoquinones (lapachol, beta-lapachone)AnthraquinonesFlavonoids (quercetin, rutin)TanninsSaponinsOrganic acids

Traditional Uses

  • Infectious diseases and immune system support
  • Candida and fungal infections
  • Cancer and tumor conditions
  • Digestive parasites
  • Respiratory infections
  • Skin conditions and wounds

Modern Applications

  • Antimicrobial and antifungal support
  • Immune system enhancement
  • Anti-inflammatory applications
  • Antioxidant supplementation
  • Complementary cancer support (under professional guidance)

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Blood clotting disorders
  • Upcoming surgery
  • Severe liver or kidney disease

Side Effects

  • Nausea and digestive upset
  • Dizziness and headache
  • Possible blood-thinning effects
  • Skin sensitivity in some individuals

Drug Interactions

  • May enhance effects of blood-thinning medications
  • Possible interactions with chemotherapy drugs
  • May affect blood sugar levels
  • Caution with immunosuppressive medications

Parts Used

  • Inner bark (primary medicinal part)
  • Heartwood (less commonly used)

Preparation Methods

1-2 tsp inner bark per cup water, steep 15-20 minutes

Simmer 1 tbsp bark in 2 cups water for 15 minutes

1:5 ratio in 50% alcohol, 2-4 ml three times daily

Powdered inner bark in standardized preparations

Strong decoction for external applications

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Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.