Lapacho Lapacho, which is also referred to as pau d'arco, is an evergreen tree that is native to South America. The inner bark and wood of the tree has been used medicinally for centuries and it is dried and sold as a tea today, for a variety of health purposes. As with any herbal product, consult your Doctor before use. The active constituents of lapacho are thought to be the two compounds lapachol and beta-lapachon, as well as their derivatives. Lapachol and beta-lapachon appear to demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antimalarial and immune-modulating activity. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that lab tests suggest that they also have antimicrobial properties and may therefore help to kill bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Lapacho tea also demonstrates antioxidant activity and may help to prevent free radical-induced damage to your cells and DNA.
