Pau D'Arco, Pink Trumpet Tree

Handroanthus impetiginosus

Physical Characteristics

Handroanthus impetiginosus is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - from Argentina north through Central America to Mexico.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Tea A tea made from the inner bark is widely used as a tonic[301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antibiotic Antifungal Antiinflammatory Antirheumatic Antitumor Cancer Dysentery Eczema Febrifuge Skin Tonic The wood and inner bark are a bitter, cooling, pungent herb that lowers fever and reduces inflammation[238 ]. The heartwood contains a naphthaquinone called lapachol - this has been shown to have antibiotic and antitumor effects[238 ]. Many native S. American peoples have prized pau d'arco as a cure-all, using it to treat a wide range of conditions including wounds, fevers, dysentery, intestinal inflammation and snake bites[254 ]. In modern herbalism the bark is used internally in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, chronic degenerative diseases, cancers, tumours, cysts, fungal infections (especially candidiasis), venereal diseases, rheumatic diseases, skin problems (especially eczema, herpes and scabies)[238 ]. It is also used, in combination with other herbs, to clear toxins, resolve congestion and strengthen the immune system[238 ]. The wood is harvested as required and dried for later use[238 ].

Known Hazards

Excessive use of the herb can lead to nausea, vomiting, dizziness and diarrhoea[238 ].(Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction )