Plant Profile: Pau D'Arco

Pau D'Arco
(Tabebuia heptaphylla; T. impetiginosa & related species)

Family: BIGNONIACEAE

Energetics: Cooling.

Taste: Bitter. 

Tissue States: 

Systems Affected: Blood. Liver. Lungs. 

Parts Used: Inner Bark

Key Components: Quinones (lapachol). 

Preparations & dosage: Decoction: simmer 1 oz in 1 pint boiling water. One cup 3-4 x per day for acute conditions or 1/2 cup 3-4 x daily for chronic. Tincture.

Actions: 
Foundational: Bitter
Primary: Alterative. Digestive tonic. Hypotensive. Anti-diabetic. 

Secondary: Antitumor. Antibacterial. Tonic

Uses: 

Lapachol has been shown in vivo to be effective in slowing and stopping the growth of certain cancers and tumors. 

In 1960, Pau d'arco was given to terminal cancer patients (Leukemia is mentioned but not sure if all the patients had leukemia or other cancers). It was reported that in 30 days time, most of the patients were no longer experiencing pain and many even discovered that their tumors were gone or greatly reduced. 
It appears to work by increasing red blood cells. 

Also showed positive effects on Ulcers, diabetes, rheumatism, osteomyelitis, leukemia, various cancers, ringworm, respiratory complaints such as bronchitis, gonorrhea, cystitis, hemorrhage, colitis, gastritis, Parkinson's disease, arteriosclerosis, Hodgkin's disease, lupus, polyps, prostatitis & leucorrhea. 

Combines well with: 

Identifying: 

Growing:

Harvesting: 

Contraindications: 


Sources: 
The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 176-177



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