Red snapper (Tabebuia impetiginosa)

The red lapacho, known in Latin as Tabebuia impetiginosa and also called lapacho or inka tee, is an evergreen tree growing in South America, especially in the Amazon region. It comes from the metasequoia family and is known for its abundant purple-pink flowers that grow in large numbers on the branches before the leaves appear. In addition to its beautiful aesthetics, the tree is used for a number of medicinal and industrial purposes.

Lapacho is known for its resins, which are used in many industrial products, including paint and varnish. The wood is also resistant to rot and termites, making it an excellent material for construction and furniture making. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used for the production of antibiotics and antifungal drugs. In traditional medicine, it is often used to treat intestinal parasites, respiratory ailments and to support the immune system. It is also used to make beverages. A notable product is, as the name suggests, 'inka tee', which is a tea made from the bark of the tree. This tea is known for its detoxifying effects, aiding digestion and improving the overall immune system. Due to its healing effects, Lapacho is becoming increasingly popular in both traditional and modern medicine. However, it is important to note that as with all medicinal plants, Lapacho must be used with caution and in accordance with the recommendations of experts.