Evidence supporting the use of: Pau d'arco
For the health condition: Sinus Infection
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Pau d'arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) is an herbal remedy derived from the inner bark of a South American tree. Its use for sinus infections is primarily based on traditional medicine, particularly in South America where indigenous peoples have long used it to address a variety of infections and inflammatory conditions, including respiratory issues. The rationale in folk medicine is that pau d'arco contains compounds such as lapachol and beta-lapachone, which are believed to have antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties are thought to help reduce infection and inflammation in the sinuses, thus providing symptom relief.
However, scientific research specifically examining pau d'arco for sinus infections is very limited. Most available studies have focused on its antimicrobial activity in vitro (in laboratory settings), rather than in human subjects or specifically in relation to sinus infections. There is little to no clinical data confirming its effectiveness or safety for this indication. Adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, and bleeding risks, have also been reported. Therefore, while its use is rooted in traditional practices, current scientific evidence supporting pau d'arco for sinus infection is insufficient, and its efficacy remains unproven by modern clinical standards.
Other ingredients used for Sinus Infection
alpha-pinenebenegut perilla (proprietary)
black pepper
bromelain
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
fennel
goldenseal
immunoglobin G
honeysuckle
lactobacillus gasseri
marshmallow
mint
peppermint oil
platycodon root
quercetin
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
zinc
mullein
hyssop
cardamom
malabar nut
inula racemosa
anise
pau d'arco
elecampane
sweetgums
Sichuan pepper
sea salt
Anamarrhena
Alpha-terpineol
Asarum heterotropoides
Asafoetida
Andrographis
allyl isothiocyanate
Barleria
black salt
Buddha's Hand
Cineole
Cinidium
Cistus
cypress
Ephedra
Elder
Goldthread
Other health conditions supported by pau d'arco
AbscessesAntibiotics (alternatives to)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cold Sores
Colds (antiviral)
Fungal Infections
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Parasites (general)
Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Sinus Infection
Staph Infections
Tuberculosis
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores