Pau D’ Arco Nature’s Sunshine

Unlike other trees in its midst, pau d’arco does not develop fungus growth, even though it grows in the most lush tropical rainforests in the world.

• Supports the immune system.
• May provide a source of antioxidants.
• Was used traditionally to combat harmful organisms.

How It WorksPau D’Arco is a botanical enigma. Despite its rather sultry climate, this tree does not grow fungus. Its bark contains lapachol and beta-lapachone, two compounds with important properties that help account for its traditional use in supporting the immune system and supporting healthy microflora. 

In order to protect endangered species, Nature’s Sunshine only works with a highly reputable Brazilian partner that has been legally harvesting pau d’arco for more than 20 years. 

• Assists in detoxification
• Supports the immune system
• Is traditionally used to support healthy microflora

This botanical has been used by many cultures to support the immune system in specific and valuable ways. Its active components, including lapachol, may provide important properties that benefit immune health. Research indicates that pau d’arco extract seems to smother microbes, not allowing them to get the oxygen and energy they need to thrive. Harvesting pau d’arco is no easy task, but it’s worth the trouble. Pau d’arco wood is extremely popular as a building material, and because of this, the trees have been overharvested. They are an endangered and protected species in Brazil. 

So their government closely regulates the harvest and requires a permit for anyone to transport, trade or export any part of the tree. Nature’s Sunshine works with experienced Brazilian partners with whom we have done business for more than two decades. They ensure that the inner bark material—a by-product from a legal wood harvest—is carefully and legally acquired and shipped. 

Several communities prized this botanical nutrient for its benefits. According to records, it was used by the Incas, the Kallawayas, and other native South American groups for its many healing properties. Pau d’arco is Portuguese for “bow tree.” That makes sense when you realize that its dense, rot-resistant wood makes excellent hunting bows, and the natives harvested it for just that. Its Latin name Tabebuia heptaphylla also led to the nickname taheebo. And many people from the region are familiar with taheebo tea. It’s also called lapacho, no doubt a reference to lapachol. For immune support that’s right on target, choose Pau D’Arco.

How to Use

• Take 1/2 teaspoon with water three times daily.