Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Pau d'arco (Tabebuia spp.) has a long history of traditional use in South American herbal medicine for a variety of ailments, including infections and parasitic infestations. Indigenous peoples and herbalists have used decoctions and teas made from the inner bark to address symptoms believed to be caused by intestinal worms and other parasites. The rationale behind this usage stems from the observed antimicrobial and possibly antiparasitic activity in traditional practice, rather than from rigorous scientific validation.

Modern scientific studies on pau d’arco’s efficacy against nematodes and worms are limited and mostly confined to in vitro (test tube) or animal studies. Some research has identified compounds in pau d’arco, such as lapachol and beta-lapachone, with demonstrated antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects in laboratory settings. However, these studies are preliminary, and there is a lack of robust clinical trials in humans to confirm safety, efficacy, and appropriate dosing for parasitic infections. As a result, its use for treating parasitic infections is primarily rooted in tradition rather than in scientific evidence.

Overall, while there is a traditional precedent and some laboratory data suggesting potential, the strength of the evidence is weak, and pau d’arco should not be considered a primary or reliable treatment for parasite infections without further research and medical supervision.

More about pau d'arco
More about Parasites (nematodes, worms)

Other ingredients used for Parasites (nematodes, worms)

Other health conditions supported by pau d'arco

Products containing pau d'arco