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Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) plant
Digestive

Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

Photo: Giles Laurent · CC BY-SA 4.0

  • Digestive
  • 7 conditions
  • Licensed photo

Overview

Pau d'arco is an evergreen tree that can reach 100 feet in height, producing pink flowers. The bark of this South American tree is used as a tea in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments; MSK says its antibacterial and anticancer effects in laboratory studies have not been shown in humans. The tree grows in both mountainous terrains high in the Andes and in low-lying areas of Paraguay and Brazil. The prized inner bark is collected from wild-growing trees throughout the year.

Traditional uses & properties

In laboratory studies pau d'arco shows antibacterial and antifungal activity, but MSK says these effects have not been shown in humans. It is marketed as a dietary supplement to treat infections; MSK says its antibacterial and antifungal activity has been seen in laboratory studies but has not been tested in humans. MSK says anticancer activity has been seen in laboratory studies but has not been shown in humans.

Safety & precautions

If taking anticoagulant medication, use only under professional supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Avoid if trying to conceive. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, intestinal discomfort, and anticoagulant effects. Blood clotting disorders are a contraindication.

Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.

Drug interactions

Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.

Habitat

Native to South America, growing in mountainous regions of the Andes in Peru and Argentina, as well as low-lying areas in Paraguay and Brazil. The inner bark is collected from wild trees year-round.

Sources

The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.

  1. Memorial Sloan Kettering, About Herbs: Pau d'Arco

Traditionally used for

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Frequently asked questions

What is Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) traditionally used for?

Traditional sources describe Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) as follows: In laboratory studies pau d'arco shows antibacterial and antifungal activity, but MSK says these effects have not been shown in humans. It is marketed as a dietary supplement to treat infections; MSK says its antibacterial and antifungal activity has been seen in laboratory studies but has not been tested in humans. MSK says anticancer activity has been seen in laboratory studies but has not been shown in humans.

What safety cautions apply to Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)?

If taking anticoagulant medication, use only under professional supervision. Do not take during pregnancy. Avoid if trying to conceive. High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, intestinal discomfort, and anticoagulant effects. Blood clotting disorders are a contraindication.