Botanical Overview
Pau d’arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa) is a species in the Bignoniaceae family. This species belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, a group of flowering plants. Although comprehensive ethnobotanical records are limited, phytochemical studies have identified 30 compounds in this species, suggesting potential medicinal value.
General Description
Along with all the other species in the Handroanthus genus, it is the national tree of Paraguay.
Family Context
The Bignoniaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Yellow Elder — 18 documented uses
- Jicaro — 15 documented uses
- Indian bean — 7 documented uses
- Spanish oak — 3 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Pau d’arco has been recorded in Colombia, and United States.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. Systematic pharmacological studies are needed to validate the traditional uses attributed to this species.