Pau d'Arco

At a Glance

Common name

Pau d'Arco

Scientific name

Handroanthus impetiginosus

Family

Bignoniaceae

Region

South America

Plant part

Inner bark, Bark

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A large tropical tree with compound leaves of five oval leaflets and showy pink-magenta trumpet flowers; the rough grey-brown bark (and inner bark) is the part used for tea and decoction.

Also known as: Lapacho, Taheebo, Tabebuia

Historical Background

Pau d'Arco (lapacho, taheebo) has been a sacred bark tea of South American Indigenous traditions for centuries, brewed from the inner bark of the tabebuia tree for resilience and vitality. Its earthy, woody cup became popular worldwide as a gentle tonic tea.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous South American (Inca and Tupi-Guarani) traditions as a bark tea for immunity and infection.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, woody, slightly bitter, floral

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Pau d'Arco has a long Indigenous tradition as an immune and antimicrobial bark tea. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, but it is not a treatment for cancer, infection, candida, or any disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.