Pau D'Arco

Pau D'Arco is available in various pharmaceutical forms: capsules, liquid extract or Pau D'Arco tea made from the bark. 

For example, Swanson’s Pau d’Arco product, 500 mg, 100 capsules, contains a premium extract obtained exclusively from the inner bark of the tree, which guarantees a complex phytochemical profile, including lapachol, lapachenol, flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids – compounds responsible for its multiple biological effects.

Other manufacturers: Herbagetica Pau D'Arco, NOW Foods, etc.

Thanks to its broad spectrum of action, Pau D'Arco is used as an adjunct in numerous clinical and functional contexts. It may help to stimulate immune system activity, being useful during periods of increased susceptibility to infections, such as colds, flu or respiratory viral infections. 

Its antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic properties justify its use as a supportive treatment for fungal infections (including candidiasis), parasitic infections, enterocolitis or dermatological infections. 

Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects can be utilised in cases of systemic inflammation, pain or fever, whilst its antioxidant activity promotes cellular protection against oxidative stress.

According to the manufacturer’s recommendations, adults should take two capsules once or twice a day, preferably with meals, with plenty of water. 

In some traditional herbal medicine protocols, the dose may be adjusted to 2–3 capsules 2–3 times a day, depending on individual needs and the duration of treatment. 

It is essential not to exceed the recommended daily dose and to adjust the dosage according to the clinical context and individual tolerance.

The Pau D'Arco plant is contraindicated for children and people with known hypersensitivity to any of its components. 

Furthermore, it is not recommended as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet. People undergoing drug therapy should consult their doctor before use to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.

Taking Pau D'Arco should be part of a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and adequate hydration. Thanks to its potential to modulate the immune response, the supplement can be used as part of seasonal treatments or during periods of high physiological stress. 

Its effects are based on the activation of macrophages and T-lymphocytes, mechanisms that help increase the body’s resistance to pathogens.

In general, Pau D'Arco is well tolerated when taken as recommended. 

Mild gastrointestinal disturbances, such as abdominal discomfort or nausea, may occasionally occur, particularly at high doses. The onset of adverse reactions requires discontinuation of the supplement and medical assessment.

Although serious interactions have not been frequently reported, caution is advised when used in combination with immunomodulatory drugs or anticoagulants.

Concomitant administration with food is recommended to reduce the risk of gastric irritation.

Exceeding the recommended daily dose may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal ones. In the event of an overdose, discontinuation of treatment and consultation with a doctor are recommended. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

The product must be stored in a dry place, protected from light and heat, at temperatures between 8 and 30 °C. The bottle must be kept closed and out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

• WebMD, Pau D'Arco
• MDPI, Tabebuia impetiginosa: a comprehensive analysis of traditional uses, phytochemistry and immunopharmacological properties
• Healthline, Pau D'Arco: potential uses, benefits and risks
• VeryWellHealth, 6 benefits of Pau D'Arco and what the science says