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Pau D’arcoFind Products

Also indexed as:Tabebuia avellanedae, Tabebuia impetiginosa
Pau D’arco: Main Image© Steven Foster
Botanical names:
Tabebuia avellanedae, Tabebuia impetiginosa

Parts Used & Where Grown

Various related species of pau d’arco trees grow in rain forests throughout Latin America. The bark is used for medical purposes.

  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for AmountWhy
Infection
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Pau d’Arco is an herb that directly fights both microbes and fungus.
Prostatitis
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Pau d’arco extract has been used traditionally for prostatitis. The herb exerts antibacterial activity against E.coli, the most common cause of two types of prostatitis.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

Native peoples in Central and South America reportedly use pau d’arco bark to treat cancer, lupus, infectious diseases, wounds, and many other health conditions.1 Caribbean folk healers use the leaf of this tree in addition to the bark for the treatment of backache, toothache, sexually transmitted diseases, and as an aphrodisiac.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.