Is Lapacho Tea Caffeine-Free? The Definitive Guide

December 9, 2025 •

3 min read

As a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion, lapacho tea offers a relaxing beverage option that won't disrupt your sleep cycle or cause jitters. Derived from the inner bark of the lapacho tree, this tea is revered in South American culture for its potential healing properties.

Quick Summary

Lapacho tea, also known as Pau d'Arco, is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion sourced from tree bark. It offers a soothing, decaf alternative with a unique earthy flavor profile and potential health benefits.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free: Lapacho tea is naturally free of caffeine as it comes from tree bark, not the Camellia sinensis plant, making it a perfect decaf alternative.
Natural Origin: Also known as Pau d'Arco, the tea is made from the inner bark of the Tabebuia avellanedae tree, native to South America.
Preparation Method: Unlike regular teas, lapacho bark is traditionally simmered in a process called decoction to extract its flavor and active compounds.
Potential Benefits: Studies suggest lapacho may offer immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits due to compounds like lapachol.
Safety Precautions: High doses can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting, and it should be avoided by pregnant women or those on blood thinners.
Theobromine Presence: Some sources report trace amounts of theobromine, a mild stimulant, but not enough to cause significant effects for most people.

The Simple Answer: Yes, Lapacho Tea is Naturally Caffeine-Free

Lapacho tea is a herbal infusion made from the inner bark of the Tabebuia avellanedae tree, native to the Amazon rainforest. This botanical source is different from traditional teas like black, green, or oolong, which come from the Camellia sinensis plant and contain caffeine. Because of its origin, lapacho tea contains no caffeine, making it suitable for those who avoid caffeine.

What is Lapacho Tea? Uncovering the “Tree of Life”

Indigenous peoples in South America call the lapacho tree Pau d’Arco, or the “Tree of Life,” and have traditionally used it medicinally. The inner bark is harvested, dried, and used to make tea. This tea is known for an earthy taste, sometimes with notes of vanilla and spice.

Potential Health Benefits of Lapacho Tea

Lapacho tea is associated with several potential health benefits, although more scientific research is needed. The bark contains compounds like lapachol and quinoids.

Some potential benefits include:

Immune Support: Lapachol has shown potential antimicrobial effects in lab studies.
Anti-Inflammatory: Compounds in the tea may help reduce inflammation.
Antioxidants: The tea contains antioxidants that may protect cells.
Digestive Aid: It has been traditionally used for digestive health and may have mild laxative effects.
Detoxification: Its diuretic properties might help with flushing toxins.

Lapacho Tea vs. Common Teas: A Comparison

Here's how lapacho tea compares to other popular beverages:


Feature	Lapacho Tea	Green Tea	Black Tea	Coffee	Yerba Mate
Caffeine	None	Moderate (25–50 mg/cup)	High (40–70 mg/cup)	Very High (95+ mg/cup)	High (75–100 mg/cup)
Source	Inner bark of Tabebuia tree	Leaves of Camellia sinensis	Leaves of Camellia sinensis	Beans of Coffea plant	Leaves of Ilex paraguariensis
Preparation	Simmered bark (decoction)	Steeped leaves	Steeped leaves	Brewed grounds	Steeped leaves/stems
Flavor	Earthy, woody, vanilla hints	Grassy, fresh, light	Robust, malty, sometimes astringent	Strong, bitter	Herbal, smoky

Preparing the Perfect Cup of Lapacho Tea

Since lapacho is made from bark, a decoction method is recommended to extract its properties.

The Traditional Decoction Method

Measure: Use 1 tablespoon of bark per liter of water in a saucepan.
Boil: Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Steep: Cover and steep off heat for 15–20 minutes.
Strain: Strain out the bark. Serve warm or cold.

A Quicker Infusion Method

A milder infusion is also possible.

Place: Put 1–2 teaspoons of bark in a cup.
Pour: Add boiled water.
Steep: Cover and steep for 5–15 minutes.
Strain and Enjoy: Strain and drink.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

While generally safe in moderation, high doses of lapacho tea, especially of isolated compounds, can cause side effects. Using the whole bark is usually considered safer than supplements with isolated compounds.

Key safety points:

Dosage: Limit consumption to 1–2 cups daily; excessive amounts can cause nausea or dizziness.
Blood Thinners: Avoid if taking blood thinners or before surgery as it can affect blood clotting.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid due to lack of research on safety.
Theobromine: It may contain trace amounts of theobromine, a mild stimulant, but usually not enough to cause effects. Those sensitive to stimulants should be cautious.

Conclusion: A Soothing, Caffeine-Free Choice

Lapacho tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal beverage with a rich history and unique flavor. Sourced from the inner bark of the Pau d’Arco tree, it offers a non-stimulating experience unlike caffeinated drinks. It's a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine, but should be consumed in moderation with awareness of potential side effects, particularly for individuals with certain health conditions. For additional information on side effects, sources like Healthline can be consulted [https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pau-d-arco].

Frequently Asked Questions

Lapacho tea is generally safe in moderation, but it should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those on blood-thinning medications. Excessive consumption can also lead to side effects like nausea.

Lapacho tea has a mild, earthy, and woody flavor with subtle hints of vanilla and spice. It is pleasantly smooth and not bitter like some traditional teas.

The main difference is the source and caffeine content. Lapacho is a caffeine-free herbal infusion from tree bark, while green tea is from the caffeinated Camellia sinensis plant.

It is generally considered safe to drink lapacho tea regularly in moderation (1-2 cups per day), but some herbalists recommend taking breaks after a few weeks of use.

The traditional method is a decoction: simmering the bark in water for 5-10 minutes, followed by a longer steeping period, to extract the full range of compounds and flavor.

Some sources suggest lapacho tea may contain trace amounts of theobromine, a mild stimulant also found in cocoa. However, the quantity is generally considered too low to cause significant stimulating effects.

Lapacho tea is also widely known by its common name, Pau d'Arco, which is Spanish for 'bow tree,' referencing the lapacho tree's former use by indigenous hunters.