Quebracho

botanical

What is it

Quebracho refers to the bark of South American trees, primarily Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco (white quebracho) and Schinopsis lorentzii (red quebracho). The bark is rich in condensed tannins and indole alkaloids and has long been used both industrially as a tanning agent and in traditional medicine.

How it works

Quebracho bark contains high concentrations of condensed proanthocyanidins (tannins) that bind to proteins, including dietary and microbial proteins in the digestive tract. This is the proposed basis for its traditional use in respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints. White quebracho also contains the alkaloid yohimbine and related indole compounds, which act as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor antagonists. In ruminant agriculture, condensed tannins from quebracho have been studied as feed additives to alter rumen fermentation and reduce methane production. In humans, well-controlled clinical trials are scarce, and most claims rest on traditional use, laboratory work, or animal data.

Evidence for 3 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Methane reduction in livestock (not human benefit)

Grade B

Good evidence

Quebracho tannins have been studied as feed additives in cattle and sheep to reduce enteric methane and modify rumen fermentation. This is an agricultural application and does not translate to a human health benefit.

Respiratory complaints (traditional use)

Grade F

Limited evidence

White quebracho bark has been used traditionally in South America as a remedy for cough and shortness of breath. Modern clinical evidence supporting these uses in humans is lacking.

Digestive symptoms

Grade F

Limited evidence

The astringent tannins in quebracho have been used traditionally for diarrhea, but human studies are absent and tannins from many other sources show similar effects.

2 commercial forms

Quebracho bark extract

Tannins are poorly absorbed; alkaloid absorption varies

Standardized extracts of Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco bark, typically as powders or capsules.

Liquid extract (tincture)

Alcohol extraction concentrates alkaloids

Traditional preparation. Alkaloid content can be high and variable.

Dosage

There is no established human dose for quebracho. Extracts in supplements are typically standardized to a percentage of alkaloids or tannins, with serving sizes ranging from 50 to 250 mg. Because tannin and alkaloid content varies widely between species and preparations, label dosing should be followed.

When and how to take it

There is no established optimal timing. Because tannins can irritate the stomach, taking quebracho with food may improve tolerance, but this also reduces absorption of meal-derived iron. If alkaloid-containing preparations are used, avoid evening doses to prevent sleep disruption.

Safety

Tannin-rich preparations can cause nausea, stomach upset, and reduced absorption of minerals such as iron when taken with meals. Quebracho preparations containing yohimbine-type alkaloids may cause increased heart rate, blood pressure changes, anxiety, or sleep disturbance. Long-term human safety data are very limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data and possible alkaloid content. People with high blood pressure, heart arrhythmias, anxiety disorders, kidney disease, or those taking psychiatric medications should not use quebracho without clinician supervision. Stop at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Because some quebracho extracts contain yohimbine-related alkaloids, they may interact with antidepressants (especially MAO inhibitors and SSRIs), stimulants, blood-pressure medications, and antianxiety drugs. The tannin content can reduce absorption of iron and certain medications. Avoid combining with other stimulant-containing supplements.

Frequently asked questions

Does quebracho contain yohimbine?⌄

Yes. White quebracho bark contains yohimbine and related indole alkaloids. The amount varies by preparation, and this is the source of most concerns about side effects.

Is quebracho safe for weight loss?⌄

Quebracho is sometimes marketed for fat loss because of its yohimbine content, but evidence in humans is weak and the risks of stimulant-like side effects are real.

Can I drink quebracho tea?⌄

Traditional preparations exist, but tannin content is high and may irritate the stomach. Pregnant women and people on medications should avoid it.

How is quebracho different from yohimbe?⌄

Both contain yohimbine. Yohimbe is the bark of Pausinystalia johimbe (an African tree), while quebracho is a South American tree. Alkaloid profiles differ.

Is quebracho regulated?⌄

It is sold as a dietary supplement in many countries with limited regulation. Some authorities have restricted yohimbine-containing products.

References

  • Quebracho (Wikidata) — Wikidata link

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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.