Lapacho (Pau d'Arco)
Lapacho (often marketed as Pau d’Arco) is an inner bark tea used traditionally in South America. It’s commonly hyped online with cure-claims that outrun the evidence. The practical, safer use is conservative, short-term tea for general wellness support—while respecting bleeding-risk cautions and avoiding long-term daily use.
Key Benefits
- Traditional wellness tea (supportive)
- May support seasonal immune routines (supportive)
- Bitter bark tea used short-term in traditional practice
- Best framed as supportive—not a cure
Common Issues It May Help With
- General wellness support (traditional)
- Seasonal immune support (supportive)
- Digestive sluggishness (supportive)
How To Use (Simple)
- Decoction/tea: follow product directions and keep conservative. Use short-term only and stop if nausea, dizziness, or GI upset occurs. Avoid concentrated extracts unless clinician-guided.
Taste / Notes
Bitter, woody, tannic.
Evidence Level
Traditional use exists; human clinical evidence for major disease claims is limited. Safety and dosing variability are concerns.
Cautions
HIGH CAUTION: Avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding. Possible bleeding risk at higher doses. Not recommended for long-term daily use. Seek medical care for serious or persistent symptoms.
Interactions
Use caution with anticoagulants/antiplatelets (bleeding risk) Use caution with NSAIDs if bleeding risk is a concern If you have liver disease or serious chronic illness, consult clinician before use
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