Pau d'arco Inner Bark | Cut & Sifted | Tabehuia impetiginosa

Deep in the rainforests of South America, the Pau d'arco tree — known locally as Tabehuia impetiginosa, lapacho, or ipe roxo — bursts into bloom with cascades of brilliant pink-purple trumpet flowers so vivid they can be seen from miles away. For centuries, indigenous peoples of Brazil, Argentina, and the Andes have used the inner bark of this remarkable tree as one of their most trusted botanical allies. It is a foundational herb of South American traditional medicine, prized for its resilience, its potency, and its deep connection to the vitality of the rainforest itself.

Our Pau d'arco is cut and sifted inner bark — this distinction matters. The outer bark of the Pau d'arco tree has little therapeutic value; it is the inner bark, rich in lapachol, beta-lapachone, and other naphthoquinones, that has been used medicinally for generations. Thin, fibrous shavings with a mild, slightly woody, faintly bitter character. Responsibly sourced and packed to order in small batches.

A note on preparation: Pau d'arco inner bark requires a decoction — it must be simmered, not steeped, to properly extract its active compounds. A long, slow simmer is the traditional and most effective preparation method.

Traditionally Used to Support

• Immune system resilience — one of Pau d'arco's most celebrated traditional uses; used for generations in South American folk medicine to support robust immune function and the body's natural defenses
• Healthy microbial balance — traditionally used to support the body's natural ability to maintain healthy microbial and fungal balance; a key herb in traditional formulas for skin flora, digestive flora, and systemic wellness
• Antioxidant and cellular support — the naphthoquinone compounds in Pau d'arco inner bark, particularly lapachol and beta-lapachone, have been the subject of significant research interest for their antioxidant and cellular protective properties
• Digestive wellness — traditionally used in South American herbalism to support healthy digestion and a balanced gut environment
• Energy and vitality — used as a general tonic in traditional South American medicine to support overall vitality, stamina, and resilience

How to Use

As a decoction (tea): Simmer 1–2 teaspoons of cut and sifted Pau d'arco inner bark in 8–10 oz of water for 20–30 minutes, covered. Strain and drink. Mild and slightly woody — pairs well with cinnamon, ginger, or a touch of honey.

Blending: Pairs beautifully with usnea and cat's claw for a comprehensive immune and microbial balance formula, reishi and astragalus for a deep immune tonic blend, or dandelion root and burdock for a liver and digestive support formula.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, cut and sifted Pau d'arco inner bark retains its potency for 2–3 years.

Not recommended during pregnancy or nursing. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if taking blood thinners or anticoagulant medications. Use in moderation — high doses are not recommended for extended periods.

Responsibly sourced. Cut and sifted inner bark. No fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.