Parts used: Inner bark Properties Adaptogen, alterative, analgesic, antifungal, antimicrobial, antineoplastic, antiviral, astringent, blood purifier Primary nutrients Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, vitamins A, B-complex, and C, zinc Pau d’arco has become a well-known herb for healing and protecting the body from disease. There seems to be some evidence of antitumor properties in pau d’arco. Many individuals have taken this herb when undergoing radiation and chemotherapy in order to strengthen the body and help prevent the side effects associated with these treatments. Pau d’arco seems to be a powerful alterative and blood builder. It has the ability to increase the hemoglobin and red corpuscles in the blood. It gives the body greater vitality by increasing the resistance to disease. It seems to aid the body by giving it the energy and strength to defend itself and resist disease. It is known to help inhibit the growth of tumors while increasing the growth of normal tissue. It is used to aid in the assimilation of nutrients and the elimination of waste matter. Pau d’arco is often referred to as the “everything” herb because of its uses for many disorders. It is used to help counteract the side effects of some medications and is thought to reduce liver damage caused by some drugs. Herbalists have used pau d’arco to treat many conditions. It is effective as an immune system enhancer and can aid in treating conditions such as cancer, leukemia, tumors and blood disorders. It is also used to treat the pain of arthritis and for diabetes, candidiasis, herpes, liver ailments, hypoglycemia and assimilation of nutrients. Studies have found that pau d’arco has antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It also seems to have an antitumor effect without any toxic side effects. It is effective against numerous viruses, bacteria and fungi, including herpes, influenza, poliovirus and many others. Research has discovered a substance in pau d’arco which is able to kill viruses and which is also beneficial in inhibiting the causative agents of dysentery, tuberculosis and anthrax.