Lapacho | Pau d’arco
Pau d’arco is an evergreen tree that has rose-coloured flowers. There are nearly 100 species of pau d’arco, but only a few yield high-quality material; plus, it takes extremely skilled gatherers to know what species are the most effective.
The medicinal part of the tree is the bark, specifically the inner lining of the bark, called the phloem (pronounced floam). Unfortunately, many companies use the whole bark, containing the deadwood too, and this naturally dilutes the activity of the material.
Scientists have identified two active chemicals in pau d’arco called naphthoquinones; they are lapachol and beta-lapachone. These chemicals have the power to kill bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. They have also shown anti-inflammatory properties, which are important in treating health conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Health benefits of Lapacho tea:
- Works as a natural antibiotic.
- Has an anti-aging effect. Trials show definite inhibition of free radicals by Lapacho constituents. Free radicals are heavily implicated in the normal aging process.
- Boosts the immune system and reduces the chances of contracting a medical condition due to its rather potent antimicrobial effects.
- Increases blood and bone marrow health. Increased red blood cell production would improve the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. This, in turn, could have important implications for the health of tissues throughout the body.
- Reduces the symptoms of the flu, colds, fevers, burns, respiratory distress, skin irritation, yeast infections, bone infections, dysentery and other infectious diseases.
- Reduces pain, inflammation and other symptoms of arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Has a laxative effect. Regular use of Lapacho will maintain the regularity of bowel movements. Users of Lapacho universally report a pleasant and moderate loosening of the bowels that leads to greater regularity without any unpleasant side-effects such as diarrhea.
100% Pure Organic Lapacho bark from Paraguay 3-4mm Ideal for Infusion
How to prepare Lapacho tea
There are a number of unique ways to brew Lapacho tea. Every region in each country has its own recipe for Lapacho tea. The basic recipe for this tea that provides so many health benefits requires two teaspoons of Lapacho tree bark for every litre of water. Infuse the tree bark into the boiling water and keep it on low heat for five to ten minutes. Allow the tea to set for 20 to 30 minutes after removing it from the heat so that it will infuse fully.
You can keep the tea in your refrigerator after making it. Lapacho tea will stay fresh and retain its health benefits for a few days.
Safety Information
Bleeding or clotting problems (avoid Lapacho | pau d’Arco).
