By Linday Wiseman
Pau D'arco is the inner bark of the Red Lapacho tree which grows in the deep forests of the Andes Mountains. It has healing abilities that have been valued for over 1,000 years, and was a popular medicine among the Incan Civilization. Pau D'arco was, and still is commonly used by medicine men in South America. It is also known as "Taheebo," "Bow-wood, or "Lapacho".
This large tree has such deep roots and thick bark that it is able to withstand extreme weather. Most of the other surrounding trees become covered with mold spores, which eventually kills them. The Lapacho tree is able to resist these deadly spores and continues growing strong. This may explain why Pau D'arco is such a wonderful herb for healing and preventing disease.
Pau D'arco is rich in antioxidant properties and has been used during chemotherapy and radiation for cancer patients. It can actually help reduce the side effects of these treatments, as well as those of other prescription drugs. It also has shown anti-tumor effects while encouraging the growth of new, healthy tissue. This herb is an excellent blood builder. It detoxifies the bloodstream as well as increasing hemoglobin levels. This gives the body more strength and vitality to fight off health complaints such as the common cold or flu. Some other properties include anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, adaptogenic, and astringent effects.
Numerous diseases and conditions have been treated with Pau D'arco, such as arthritis, candidiasis, cancer, AIDS/HIV, diabetes, liver problems, toxemia, digestive disorders, skin diseases, asthma, allergies, and immune system disorders to name a few. Studies have shown that this herb is effective and safe. It is gentle enough to be used by children and women who are pregnant and/or nursing. Taking Pau D'arco can improve nutrient assimilation in the body, and is loaded with many of it's own nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, vitamins A, B-Complex, C, and Zinc.
Pau D'arco is considered to be an all-purpose herb because it has immune-enhancing effects that can benefit just about anyone. It's healing and nutritious, and can be found in many of Salandrea's Herbal Teas. Great taste with great benefits!
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