Palo Guaco is the woody stem or bark of guaco, a traditional Central American plant. It is different from guaco leaves because the woody material is usually prepared by simmering rather than steeping.

How do I prepare Palo Guaco?

Use a small amount of dried wood or bark and simmer in water for 15-20 minutes, then strain. Start mild and adjust only if needed. Woody botanicals are stronger than leaf teas.

What does Palo Guaco taste like?

It has an earthy, woody, aromatic flavor with some bitterness. Honey, lemon, or ginger can make the taste smoother while keeping the traditional character.

What is the difference between Palo Guaco and Guaco Leaves?

Guaco Leaves are lighter and steep more quickly. Palo Guaco is woody and requires longer simmering. They are related preparations but have different strengths, textures, and preparation methods.

Are there precautions for Palo Guaco?

Use moderately. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition, ask a qualified professional before use.

Pile of shade-dried palo guaco wood chips with natural tan and greenish-grey coloring

Respiratory ease

Mucus clearance

Immune defense

Swelling relief

Traditional Herbs

Palo Guaco | 57 g / 2 oz

Mikania guaco

Also known as: guaco, guaco bark, bejuco de cadena

Wildcrafted & Shade-Dried

Experience the power of Honduran Guaco. Traditionally used in Central American herbalism for clear breathing and throat comfort. Shade-dried for potency.

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$18.00

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Traditional Benefits

Respiratory ease: A potent traditional remedy for clearing airways and easing heavy coughs.
Mucus clearance: Helps break down and expel stubborn mucus from the respiratory tract.
Immune defense: Boosts the body's natural defenses against respiratory challenges.
Swelling relief: Contains compounds that lower inflammation throughout the body.

Story

The TRADITIONAL HERBS Ritual

The aromatic wood and bark of Mikania guaco, known as 'palo guaco,' embody Central American respiratory tradition in woody, climbing form.

The aromatic wood and bark of Mikania guaco, known as 'palo guaco,' embody Central American respiratory tradition in woody, climbing form. Wild-harvested from Honduras' humid forest margins where the vine ascends into canopy light, this wood carries generations of indigenous wisdom about breath, seasonal wellness, and lung support. Revered for its powerful volatile compounds and time-honored applications in respiratory care, it is carefully processed to preserve its coumarin-rich profile. Offered in wood pieces or chips, free from synthetic expectorants or pharmaceutical modification.

How to Use

Herbal Decoction (Stem Preparation)

Place 10-15g of Palo Guaco stem pieces in a pot with 2-3 cups (500-750ml) of water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Remove from heat, cover, and steep for an additional 10 minutes.
Strain and drink 1-2 cups 2-3 times daily.

For Respiratory Health & Cough

Drink 1 cup of Palo Guaco decoction 2-3 times daily to traditionally support bronchial health, ease persistent cough, and help clear respiratory passages.

For Asthma & Bronchitis Support

Consume Palo Guaco tea consistently, 3 times daily during respiratory challenges. The natural bronchodilatory properties provide traditional relief.

Note: Palo Guaco (stem) is prepared similarly to Guaco leaves but uses the woody stem pieces.

Traditional Note: Palo Guaco stem is considered more concentrated than the leaves and is used when stronger respiratory support is needed.

Processing

Processing Method

Selective Harvesting

Herbs are hand-picked at peak maturity, with care to protect plant populations and ecosystems.

Manual Cleaning

Unwanted parts like dirt and dry leaves are removed; useful portions are sorted for quality.

Drying Setup

Delicate herbs are tied in small bunches or spread thinly to allow natural airflow.

Shade Drying

Materials dry slowly in a cool, shaded space to preserve aroma, color, and beneficial properties.

Storage

Once fully dry, herbs are trimmed and sealed in airtight containers to maintain freshness and potency.

1
Selective Harvesting
Herbs are hand-picked at peak maturity, with care to protect plant populations and ecosystems.
2
Manual Cleaning
Unwanted parts like dirt and dry leaves are removed; useful portions are sorted for quality.
3
Drying Setup
Delicate herbs are tied in small bunches or spread thinly to allow natural airflow.
4
Shade Drying
Materials dry slowly in a cool, shaded space to preserve aroma, color, and beneficial properties.
5
Storage
Once fully dry, herbs are trimmed and sealed in airtight containers to maintain freshness and potency.

Profile

Product Profile

Origin

🇭🇳 Honduras

Shelf Life

For best potency, use within 12-18 months.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry, and dark place. Always keep tightly sealed. Avoid prolonged heat and humidity.

Ingredients

Shade-dried mikania wood pieces or chips (Mikania guaco).

View Product Documentation →

StoryHow to UseProcessingProfile

The TRADITIONAL HERBS Ritual

The aromatic wood and bark of Mikania guaco, known as 'palo guaco,' embody Central American respiratory tradition in woody, climbing form.

How to Use

Herbal Decoction (Stem Preparation)

Place 10-15g of Palo Guaco stem pieces in a pot with 2-3 cups (500-750ml) of water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Remove from heat, cover, and steep for an additional 10 minutes.
Strain and drink 1-2 cups 2-3 times daily.

For Respiratory Health & Cough

Drink 1 cup of Palo Guaco decoction 2-3 times daily to traditionally support bronchial health, ease persistent cough, and help clear respiratory passages.

For Asthma & Bronchitis Support

Consume Palo Guaco tea consistently, 3 times daily during respiratory challenges. The natural bronchodilatory properties provide traditional relief.

Note: Palo Guaco (stem) is prepared similarly to Guaco leaves but uses the woody stem pieces.

Traditional Note: Palo Guaco stem is considered more concentrated than the leaves and is used when stronger respiratory support is needed.

Processing Method

Selective Harvesting

Herbs are hand-picked at peak maturity, with care to protect plant populations and ecosystems.

Manual Cleaning

Unwanted parts like dirt and dry leaves are removed; useful portions are sorted for quality.

Drying Setup

Delicate herbs are tied in small bunches or spread thinly to allow natural airflow.

Shade Drying

Materials dry slowly in a cool, shaded space to preserve aroma, color, and beneficial properties.

Storage

Once fully dry, herbs are trimmed and sealed in airtight containers to maintain freshness and potency.

1
Selective Harvesting
Herbs are hand-picked at peak maturity, with care to protect plant populations and ecosystems.
2
Manual Cleaning
Unwanted parts like dirt and dry leaves are removed; useful portions are sorted for quality.
3
Drying Setup
Delicate herbs are tied in small bunches or spread thinly to allow natural airflow.
4
Shade Drying
Materials dry slowly in a cool, shaded space to preserve aroma, color, and beneficial properties.
5
Storage
Once fully dry, herbs are trimmed and sealed in airtight containers to maintain freshness and potency.