Pau d’arco is an herbal supplement derived from the bark of the Tabebuia avellanedae tree. It contains beta-lapachone and lapachol, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Pau d’Arco has been used for centuries to treat conditions ranging from yeast infection to cancer and is generally brewed into a tea for its healing effects. Despite its long history of use, pau d’Arco can cause dangerous side effects when used irresponsibly. Comprehending pau d’Arco’s health effects and potential risks allows you to get the most benefit from the supplement while avoiding adverse effects.
Anti-Fungal Properties
One of the main health effects of pau d’Arco is treating fungal infections. Jock itch, yeast infection, athlete’s foot and seborrheic dermatitis are among the many conditions that may be relieved using pau d’arco. Allergies and sensitivities to yeast and mold-both fungi-may also respond to treatment with pau d’arco.
While pau d’arco can help kill yeast and other fungi, additional lifestyle changes are needed to prevent it from returning. Limit your daily intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates-both of which act as a food source for fungi like Candida albicans. Avoid stress as much as possible, and aim for 8 or more hours of sleep each night.
Anti-Cancer Properties
The anti-cancer properties of pau d’arco are among it’s most intriguing health effects. According to the Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, pau d’arco kills lung cancer cells and prevents metastasis of the disease in vitro. However, it would have to be taken in extremely high and toxic doses to provide any benefit in humans, according to the University of California Medical Center. It is not known whether pau d’arco has the same effects in the human body, but such results are promising considering the virulence of most lung cancers.
Pau d’Arco increases the risk for bleeding and anemia and may cause dangerous interactions when taken with certain chemotherapy drugs. Ask your doctor before taking pau d’Arco if you have a history of blood clotting disorders or hemorrhagic stroke.
Anti-Bacterial
Another important health effect of pau d’Arco is its potency against bacterial infections. It contains compounds called naphthaquinones, which are thought to have immune-stimulating and anti-bacterial properties. In animal tests, naphthaquinone compounds have proven effective against malaria and other bacteria. Ask your doctor before using pau d’Arco if you are taking antibiotics for a bacterial infection.
