Lapacho

Supplement Forms/Alternate Names:

Pau D’Arco

Introduction

Lapacho is a tree that grows in South America. The bark and leaves have been used to ease swelling in the body and treat cancer. Lapacho can be taken as a pill, powder, or extract. It can also be made into a tea.

Dosages

There are no advised doses for lapacho.

What Research Shows

Not Enough Data to Assess

There is not enough data to support that lapacho is helpful in treating health problems. We will review future studies as they are published .

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It may not be safe to take lapacho. It may cause severe nausea and vomiting even with a small dose.A1 Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to take for a short or long period.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

 

References

A1. Questionable methods of cancer management: 'nutritional' therapies. CA Cancer J Clin. 1993 Sep-Oct;43(5):309-319.

Last reviewed March 2020 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC