Pau d'arco, also known as Pink Trumpet Tree and Tabebuia ipe, is a member of the bignonia family that is native to the Amazonian rainforest. For centuries, South Americans have harvested the inner bark to make tonics and teas, particularly a traditional herbal tea called Lapacho. The powdered pau d'arco bark is typically encapsulated as a dietary supplement.
While Pau d'arco contains tannins and antioxidant compounds like quercetin, the herb also contains a phenolic compound called lapachol that does present a risk of toxicity if taken in large doses or for a long period of time. The topical use of Pau d'arco, however, is not associated with any adverse side effects.
