Pau D’Arco (Handroanthus impetiginosus) – Powdered Bark from Brazil

Pau D’Arco, the Sacred Amazonian Bark for Strength, Cleansing, and Inner Resilience

Embrace the powerful protective energy of Pau D’Arco (Handroanthus impetiginosus), a revered tree native to the Amazon and Atlantic forests of South America. Known for its striking pink blossoms and deeply grounding bark, Pau D’Arco has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for purification, resilience, and inner strength. Our powdered bark is ethically harvested in Brazil and prepared in a fine, ready-to-use form that honors the plant’s rich legacy.

The Tree of Strength

Pau D’Arco, also known as Ipê Roxo or Lapacho, is a hardwood tree known for its resistance to rot, fungus, and insects. This physical resilience mirrors its symbolic and spiritual reputation as a plant of protection and vitality. In traditional Amazonian and Andean cultures, Pau D’Arco bark is used in teas, baths, and rituals meant to cleanse the body, mind, and energetic field.

Its name—meaning “bow stick” in Portuguese—refers to its historical use in crafting hunting bows. But its deeper role lies in herbal and ceremonial practices, where it is valued for supporting vitality, clearing stagnation, and reconnecting us with grounded strength.

Traditional Uses and Energetic Qualities

Pau D’Arco bark has long been used to:

• Cleanse the blood and energetic body
• Support the immune system and physical resilience
• Detoxify emotional and spiritual imbalances
• Create protection and clarity during times of stress

Though many associate it with physical detox, its use is equally energetic and ceremonial—invoked in traditional medicine to release internal blocks, restore balance, and fortify boundaries.

Often consumed as a decoction or applied externally in compresses or baths, Pau D’Arco is used in times of transition, convalescence, or emotional healing.

Powdered Form and Preparation

This finely ground bark powder offers a versatile form of Pau D’Arco that can be easily used in teas, tinctures, herbal capsules, spiritual baths, or body scrubs. It retains the deep, earthy essence of the plant and is prepared without any additives or processing agents.

To prepare a traditional tea, simmer 1–2 teaspoons of Pau D’Arco powder in water for 15–20 minutes. The resulting infusion carries the warm, bitter qualities of the tree—often considered both purifying and grounding.

Scientific Interest

Modern research into Handroanthus impetiginosus has highlighted its content of naphthoquinones (especially lapachol and beta-lapachone), which have attracted attention for their potential antioxidant, antifungal, and immune-supportive properties.

Though Pau D’Arco is still largely studied in traditional herbal contexts, some studies have shown interest in its use for inflammatory balance and microbial resistance. As with many sacred herbs, the synergy of compounds is often best appreciated through whole-plant use in context—not isolated extracts.

Sacred and Sustainable Sourcing

Our Pau D’Arco is wild-harvested in Brazil by experienced gatherers who respect the forest and its ancient wisdom. We never overharvest or strip live trees, and our sourcing model supports local communities while protecting the long-term health of native ecosystems.

At Maya Herbs, we believe that herbs carry not just chemical properties but energetic stories—and Pau D’Arco’s story is one of endurance, purification, and strength in stillness.

Whether you’re seeking energetic clarity, inner resilience, or a traditional Amazonian ally for deep cleansing, Pau D’Arco offers a grounded path to restore balance and vitality.