Botanical Name: Tabebuia avellanadae ; Common Names: Pau D'Arco, Taheebo, Lapacho.
Traditional Medicinal Uses: Taheebo has strong antinflammatory effect, especially in the stomach and intestines. It used in a wide range of inflammatory conditions, as cystitis, candida and prostatitis.
Research suggests that pau d’arco extract has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-cancer constituents, supporting the traditional medicinal use of this plant.
While the exact mechanism remains unknown, pau d’arco is thought to inhibit the processes bacteria and fungi need to produce oxygen and energy (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pau-d-arco#infections ).
Several test-tube studies show that the bark extract provides protection against a number of disease-causing organisms and may also inhibit the growth of infectious bacteria in your digestive system.
For example, beta-lapachone has been found to inhibit and treat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), an infection which is notoriously difficult to control.
In another study, pau d’arco extract inhibited the growth of Helicobacter (H.) pylori, a bacteria that grows in your digestive tract and has a tendency to attack your stomach lining, causing ulcers.
Warnings: Not recommended for use during pregnancy.