Evidence supporting the use of: Pau d'arco
For the health condition: Tuberculosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Pau d’arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa or Tabebuia avellanedae) is a medicinal tree bark traditionally used in South American folk medicine for a variety of ailments, including infections like tuberculosis (TB). The indigenous peoples of the Amazon and other regions have long brewed pau d’arco tea to treat symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses, such as cough and fever. The rationale for its use in tuberculosis hinges on its perceived anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as the bark contains compounds like lapachol and beta-lapachone, which have shown some in vitro activity against bacteria and fungi.

However, while pau d’arco has a well-documented history of traditional use for infections, there is minimal scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness specifically against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacterium responsible for TB. Laboratory studies have found that some constituents of pau d’arco can inhibit bacterial growth in test tubes, but these results have not translated into meaningful clinical outcomes in humans. Furthermore, there are concerns about toxicity at doses required to achieve potential antimicrobial effects.

In summary, pau d’arco is used for TB primarily based on traditional practices, with very limited scientific validation. It should not be relied upon as a sole or primary treatment for tuberculosis, which is a serious infectious disease requiring specific antibiotic therapy.

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