Edited 2009

PAU D'ARCO - TABEBUIA IMPETIGINOSA

Pau d'Arco, also known as Lapacho, is an evergreen tree, native to the rain forests and mountains of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil. This impressive tree can grow to 25 feet and is the proud bearer of beautiful trumpet like flowers, but it is the inner bark which is used therapeutically.

It has many names including Lapacho and Pink Trumpet Tree, and two ancient tribal names - Ipe Roxo and Taheebo. The native Indians of Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and other South American countries, have used Pau d'Arco for thousands of years - some evidence even suggests that its use pre-dates the Incas!

FOLKLORE

Many South American tribes used large quantities of Pau d'Arco Tea, both internally and externally. Traditionally, it was often used  for fevers, infections, colds, respiratory problems and there are also references to its use with helping gastric problems and arthritic conditions.

Pau d'Arco was traditionally used as a remedy for some severe conditions too. These include cancer / tumours, Leprosy, Syphilis and snakebite wounds.

Anecdotal evidence also tells us that Pau d'Arco can give pain relief, especially to conditions of inflammation and circulatory disorders, like Arthritis, for example.

Pau d'Arco contains a rich and potent source of anti-oxidants - known to protect the body by mopping up 'free-radicals' which cause harm to body cells. Anti-oxidants are also considered to slow the aging process by slowing down oxidation damage to DNA.

DOSAGE
Decoction - 15-20g to 500ml water, gently simmered for 20 mins. Drink 1 cup 3 times daily
Tea - Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-3 teaspoons of herb and cover. After 10-15 minutes strain, add honey if desired. Drink 2-3 cups daily.
Tincture (1:5) - 30-60 drops 3 times daily
Fluid extract (1:1) - 10-20 drops 3 times daily
Capsules (min 325mg) - 1-2 capsules 3-6 times daily

Or follow the instructions on any proprietary pack of Pau d'Arco being used.

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