ShopHerbs Premium Lapacho Bark
Tabebuia impetiginosa – Sacred Amazonian Tree of Life
Rainforest Alliance
USDA Organic
Harvested from the majestic Tabebuia impetiginosa trees of the Amazon basin, our Lapacho bark (traditionally called Pau d’Arco) represents the finest quality inner bark, carefully removed using sustainable methods passed down through generations of indigenous harvesters.
The Lapacho tree is considered the pharmacy of the forest by many South American tribes.
– Traditional Amazonian Healer
Botanical Profile
- Scientific Name: Tabebuia impetiginosa (syn. Handroanthus impetiginosus)
- Family: Bignoniaceae
- Common Names: Pau d’Arco, Taheebo, Ipe Roxo
- Harvest Region: Brazilian Amazon (Mato Grosso)
- Tree Age: Harvested only from 30+ year old trees
Physical Characteristics
| Bark Color: | Rich cinnamon-brown inner bark |
|---|---|
| Texture: | Fibrous but easily cut |
| Aroma: | Earthy, slightly sweet with vanilla notes |
| Flavor: | Bitter with woody undertones |
| Form: | Curled strips (2-5mm thick) |
Traditional Preparation
Classic Decoction
Simmer 1 tbsp bark in 3 cups water for 15-20 minutes
Traditional method enhances extraction of naphthoquinones
Cold Infusion
Steep 24 hours in room temperature water
Preserves more volatile compounds
Tincture Base
1:5 ratio in 60% alcohol for 6 weeks
For concentrated extracts
Quality Verification
- HPLC tested for lapachol content (0.3-0.8%)
- Microscopic analysis for authenticity
- Heavy metal screening
- Pesticide residue free
- Ethnobotanical origin certification
Usage Guidelines
Lapacho has a long history of traditional use but requires informed preparation:
- Not recommended during pregnancy
- Limit continuous use to 3 weeks
- May interact with blood thinners
- Start with small doses
- Consult healthcare provider if taking medications
Important: This product is sold as a botanical specimen for research and educational purposes. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Ethical Harvesting
Our harvesting practices ensure the survival of these magnificent trees:
Only inner bark collected (tree survives)
Direct partnership with Kayapo communities
10-year rotation between harvests
Ethnobotanical Notes
The Tupi-Guarani people called Lapacho Tajy, meaning to have strength. The bark has been used in South American herbal traditions for centuries, particularly valued by the Inca civilization and later adopted by Portuguese settlers who gave it the name Pau d’Arco (Bow Tree), referencing its use in making hunting bows.
