Herb's Introduction
Tabebuia avellanedae, also known as Handroanthus impetiginosus, is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Bignoniaceae family. Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, it's widely recognized for its stunning pink or magenta trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom before the new leaves emerge. The tree has a slow growth rate and can reach impressive heights of up to 30 meters. Its wood is notoriously hard and dense, rich in tannins, and highly resistant to weather and decay, making it suitable for outdoor structural uses. The bark of this tree is the primary part used in traditional medicine.
Name in Different Countries & Terminology
This tree goes by many names depending on the region. In Brazil, it's commonly known as Pau d'Arco, which translates to "bow wood," a name given because of its historical use by indigenous peoples for making bows. In Argentina and Paraguay, it is called Lapacho or Lapacho rosado (pink lapacho). Other names include Pink Trumpet Tree and Pink Ipê. The scientific name has also seen some changes over time. While it was once classified under the genus Tabebuia (hence Tabebuia avellanedae and Tabebuia impetiginosa), it is now more accurately categorized as Handroanthus impetiginosus. The term Lapacho or Pau d'Arco often refers to the medicinal bark derived from this tree.
Availability & External Look
The tree itself is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from Mexico down to northern Argentina. Its bark, which is the part most commonly used for medicinal purposes, is brownish-grey, tough, and difficult to peel. The inner bark, which is often sold in health food stores and online, has a pale yellowish or tan color. It's available in various forms, including:
Dried bark pieces or chips for making teas or decoctions.
Powdered bark for capsules, tinctures, or topical applications.
Extracts and tinctures.
Prepared capsules or tablets.
The medicinal grade bark should be from the inner bark, as the outer bark contains little of the active compounds.
Healing Properties & Advantages
Lapacho has been a staple in traditional folk medicine for centuries due to its purported healing properties. Modern research has identified key active compounds, most notably lapachol and beta-lapachone, which are believed to be responsible for its effects. The primary advantages and properties include:
Antimicrobial: It's traditionally used against a wide range of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, fungi (like Candida), viruses, and protozoa.
Anti-inflammatory: It may help reduce inflammation in various conditions.
Antioxidant: The compounds in the bark may help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Immunomodulatory: It's believed to help boost or modulate the immune system.
Anticancer: In South America, it's been used as a traditional anti-cancer therapy, though clinical evidence is not yet conclusive and high doses can be toxic.
Uses & Using Way
Lapacho is primarily used as a herbal remedy for various ailments. Its uses and preparation methods often depend on the specific condition being treated.
Infections: Commonly used for urinary tract infections (UTIs), fungal infections (like yeast infections and athlete's foot), and other microbial issues.
Immune Support: Taken to strengthen the body's natural defenses, especially during cold and flu season.
Inflammatory Conditions: May be used to help manage symptoms of inflammatory disorders.
Topical Applications: Infusions or decoctions of the leaf are sometimes used topically for skin conditions like psoriasis or hemorrhoids.
As a Laxative: The decoction of the dried bark can act as a mild laxative.
The most common way to use lapacho bark is by preparing a decoction. This involves simmering the bark pieces in water for a period of time to extract the active compounds.
Decoction Recipe: Add 1-2 teaspoons of bark to about a quart (1 liter) of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing it to steep for 15-20 minutes. Strain and drink the tea throughout the day.
The decoction has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
Conclusion & Cautions
While lapacho has a long history of traditional use and shows promise in preliminary studies, it's important to approach its use with caution. The active compound, lapachol, can be toxic in high doses and may cause nausea, vomiting, or other side effects. It is also reported to have anticoagulant properties, which means it can thin the blood and may interact with conventional blood-thinning medications. Pregnant women should avoid it as it has been noted as a traditional abortifacient. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal remedy, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications. The lack of extensive clinical trials means that much of the information on its efficacy and safety is based on traditional use rather than scientific evidence.
