Pau d’arco is an herb known by many names. The reason for this is simple: It was a deeply prized herb known by many of the indigenous tribes of South America. They were well aware of pau d’arco’s numerous health benefits and used it for various health problems.

Pau d’arco bark has many active principles, mainly lapachol, quercetin, and other flavonoids. These act in synergy to exert antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria and fungi. Pau d’arco’s properties may also ease the symptoms of sore throat and cold.