Praktické lekárnictvo 4/2018

Lapacho – active compounds and therapeutic effects

Lapacho (Tabebuia impetiginosa) is a tropical evergreen tree originating from South America. Its bark is used in traditional medicine especially for cancer, infections a immunity disorders, such as allergy, revmatism, and psoriasis. The main active compounds of lapacho are quinones lapachol and β-lapachon and recent studies confirm its therapeutic effects. The most promising is their anti-tumor and immunomodulatory activity. However, clinical trials are still lacking.

Keywords: Tabebuia impetiginosa, lapacho, traditional medicine, lapachol, β-lapachon, cancer