Pau D ArcoPau d arco bark comes from the Tabebuia impetiginosa tree, which grows indigenous to South America, specifically in the lush rain forest regions. Although it is rather new on the Western nutritional supplement scene, it has been harvested, utilized, and prized by native tribes in the rain forest for hundreds of years for a variety of medicinal and therapeutic purposes. What it ContainsPau d arco bark, which is what the supplements are made from, contain chemical compounds that are believed to harbor its benefits. One of them, called lapachol, is said to eliminate microorganisms that are responsible for certain diseases and infections.Nowadys, however, in the Western world, this bark is taken as a supplement or drank as pau d arco tea to fight cancer. The National Cancer Institute actually conducted studies on it, which involved using high doses of lapachol with human subjects. Some of these studies suggested that it was effective, but it lead to other side effects, such as blood clotting problems and more that caused the National Cancer Institute to discontinue its research on it. Despite this, there have been some alternative health experts who argue in favor of pau d' arco's use saying that it must be taken as a whole and to not just use the lapachol (the active ingredient) as a standalone in high doses. Whatever the case may be, since there wasn't enough time for conclusive evidence on pau d arco's efficacy, the debate rages on to this day. Other BenefitsOther cited benefits of pau d' arco bark supplements or pau d arco tea are: lessening inflammation, helping fight vaginal yeast infections, alleviating respiratory conditions, such as bronchitis, and perhaps even boosting immune system function.Possible Side EffectsThis herb has anti-clotting properties, so if you are on any anticoagulants, make sure you talk to your doctor before taking it. Pregnant and/or nursing women should refrain from supplementation of any kind unless consulting with their physician. How to Take ItTypical dosage for pau d' arco bark supplements are 250 mgs taken twice daily.Pau d arco tea is simply steeped in hot water for several minutes before enjoying. It is recommended that 2 to 3 teaspoons are of the dried herb are used for steeping.
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