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Pau d'arco (pronounced powdy arco) was relatively unknown until the 1960's when Dr. Theodore Meyer wrote an article claiming that the herb cured five advanced classes of leukemia. A flurry of research resulted and the effective drug was isolated. This drug was then given to test animals with confirming results. However, in a 'too good to be true' conclusion, the National Cancer Institute determined that the amount of this drug needed to be effective in humans would bring severe and even dangerous side effects. Just like that, pau d-arco was virtually benched. Some believers remained undaunted by these negative findings. Over the next decade pau d'arco was successfully used to treat arthritis, infections, skin problems, malaria, fevers, and even some cancers. Was the Cancer Institute wrong in its research? No, the research was not wrong, but it was inadequate for two reasons. First, the testing had been done on an isolated ingredient in pau d'arco called lapachol. Those using it effectively found that taking the whole herb eliminated the unwanted side effects. Second, further research found that pau d'arco contained over 20 active ingredients that worked together to bring about its proven benefits. Pau d'arco has effectively treated malaria, yeast infections, tuberculosis, strep, and dysentery. Pau d'arco in small dosages increases immune system activity and in large doses suppresses some immune responses such as inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory work have given pau d'arco promise as a treatment for arthritis, allergies, ulcers, skin problems, and other similar conditions. Add to that list diabetes, flu, lupus, parasites, and skin diseases, and it is easy to see why it was once toted as a 'wonder drug.' Pau d'arco is a bark, but it can also be purchased as a tincture or a capsule. One to two capsules or drops of tincture taken up to four times a day is a usual dosage. The amount, of course, depends on the patient and the condition. The most common way to ingest this herb is through making a tea which has a cool, bitter flavor. A tablespoon of the bark boiled for twenty minutes in three cups of water will extract its nutrients. (Do not use an aluminum pan for this.) On cup of this tea taken three or four times a day would be a maximum dosage. Normally half this amount is sufficient. How can someone be sure they are getting the genuine article? This is a real concern in light of the fact that some pau d'arco has been tested and found lacking many of the life-giving ingredients that made it famous. In general, that grown in Argentina is considered best. Also, some health cautions are in order. Lacking sufficient testing as to its effect on infants, pau d'arco should be shunned by pregnant and lactating mothers. Long term effects have included anemia and its blood thinning capabilities make it advisable to avoid before surgery. Other problems some have reported include dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
Article Source: http://www.mintswords.com
Centuries of documented success with Pau D'Arco as a health giving herb cannot be mistaken. Though it comes with precautions, quality Pau D'Arco promises many benefits for a variety of health problems.
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