Plant

The evergreen pau d'arco can grow to around 125 feet tall and is incredibly disease and decay resistant, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, due to its medicinal popularity, the tree is endangered.

History

According to the American Cancer Society, the Incas and other ancient South Americans drank pau d'arco tea for its health benefits. The leaves and bark from the tree were also used in Brazil and the Caribbean as herbal remedies.

Uses

Historically and currently, the inner bark of the pau d'arco is used to treat a range of diseases, including cancer, lupus, infectious and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as injuries and pain.

Forms

Pau d'arco is readily available in health stores in capsule, salve, liquid extract, powder, dried bark, tea and tincture form.

Benefits

The inner bark of the pau d'arco tree contains compounds called naphthaquinones, according to the University of California, San Diego Cancer Center. These are claimed to help the immune system with their cleansing properties and stimulation of red blood cells.

Risks

While pau d'arco compounds killed lung cancer cells and reduced lung tumor growth in mice in laboratory tests, it had to be administered in toxic doses. Pau d'arco can also cause problems with blood clotting, and side effects include skin sensitivity, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Source:

American Cancer Society: Pau d'arco

University of Maryland Medical Center: Pau d'arco

University of California, San Diego Moores Cancer Center: Complementary and Alternative Therapies For Cancer Patients

More Information:

Pau d'Arco Benefits and Cautions Explained Before You Buy