A very surprising thing learned today about a somewhat common wood

[jakeXT]

8. I couldn't find anything, and they changed the scientific name I believe

Ipê (Tabebuia spp.)

..

Several species of Tabebuia are also known for Pau D’Arco, a special herb extracted from their leaves and bark. For centuries, the extract has been sold as a tea and used by indigenous communities to treat a range of ailments. While few scientific studies have been conducted, Pau D’Arco is believed to treat illnesses such as leukemia, allergies, diabetes, dysentery and malaria.

http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/kids/species-profiles/ipe

Scientists have identified two active chemicals in pau d'arco. These chemicals are called naphthoquinones: lapachol and beta-lapachone. In lab tests, these chemicals kill some bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. They also have anti-inflammatory properties. But no one knows whether they will have the same effects when humans take them, and the usual dose required would have severe, toxic side effects.

Source: Pau d'arco | University of Maryland Medical Center http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/pau-darco

In 2007, this large genus native to Central and South America was revised and on the basis of DNA, morphological and anatomical evidence subdivided into several genera.
http://www-public.jcu.edu.au/discovernature/plants_u/JCUDEV_006214