Latin Name: Tabebula avellanedae
Common name: Pau D’Arco
Family: Bignoniaceae
Parts used: Inner bark
Constituents: Naphthaquinones (lapachol and beta-lapachone), anthraquinones and flavonoids( including quercetin), saponins.
Medicinal actions: Antimicrobial, antiviral, antibacterial, antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, antineoplastic, immune stimulant.
Medicinal use: Fungal infections, such as ringworm, candida, internal inflammatory conditions, cancer.
Pharmacology:
- Flavanoid quercetin inhibits mitochondrial electron transport.
- Napthaquinones lapachol has an anticoagulant effect in humans that produces vitamin K antagonism similar to warfarin.
Pharmacy:
- Dried herb: 5g taken 2-8 times per day
- Standardized extract: 2-4% lapachol – 15-20g taken 3-4 times per day
Toxicity: Only occurs with isolated lapachol.
Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy.
Interactions: May interact with anti-coagulant medications.
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