Side Effects of Pau d'Arco

Pau d'Arco is a medicinal herb that has been used for more than 1,000 years by natives of Brazil, but there is some controversy and misconceptions about its possible side effects.

Function

• In the Santo Andre hospital in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, Pau d'Arco has been used for the treatment of cancer and other illnesses since the 1970s.

Use

• Traditionally people have made an herbal tea from the inner bark of the Pau d'Arco tree.

Controversy

• The real controversy about side effects has to do with researchers, such as the National Cancer Institute, isolating an active ingredient, known as lapachol, from the herb and experimenting with it on animals and humans to reduce tumors and treat illnesses such as cancer. The research found that lapachol was effective but after prolonged use caused nausea, dizziness and blood clotting.

Synergy

• The focus on lapachol by researchers in fact negates research on the synergistic effects of all the components of the natural herb working together.

Healing Nutrients

• Pau d'Arco contains iron, calcium and selenium for cell growth and boosting the immune system. Pau d'Arco kills microorganisms that contribute to many chronic illnesses and infections and promotes a healthy colon.

Side Effects

• There are no known side effects to drinking the herbal tea, although it has always been known that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use this herb.