Eucommia Bark
Eucommia ulmoides
杜仲
Pinyin: Dù Zhòng
Plant Family
Eucommiaceae
Part Used
Bark
Origin
China (Guizhou, Sichuan, Hubei, Shaanxi)
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Eucommia is a deciduous tree native to central China, and the only member of its family. The bark is distinguished by the white, rubbery filaments that stretch between broken pieces. It is a primary kidney and bone tonic in Chinese medicine. Eucommia is also known as the "hardy rubber tree" because its sap contains natural rubber.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
warm
Flavors (五味)
sweet, bitter
Meridians (归经)
liver, kidney
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Tonifies liver and kidney
- Strengthens tendons and bones
- Lower back and knee pain from deficiency
- Dizziness and hypertension (liver yang rising)
- Prevents miscarriage and calms fetus
- Fatigue and weakness
- Frequent urination
- Promotes healthy bone growth in children
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Used in decoctions, tinctures, and wine. The bark is typically used either raw or salt-processed (Yan Du Zhong) to enhance its kidney-meridian effects. Eucommia tea is also popular in China.
Suggested Dosage
Decoction: 6-15g daily (simmered 30 min). Salt-processed Eucommia is preferred for kidney tonification. Tincture: 2-5ml 2-3 times daily. Tea: 3-6g steeped for 10-15 min.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Spring and summer, from trees 15-20 years old. Bark is peeled from branches (not the main trunk, to protect the tree) and dried in the sun.
Quality Indicators
Thick bark with dark brown outer surface and purplish-brown inner surface. The hallmark sign is the white rubbery filaments visible when bark is broken - more filaments = higher quality. Premium grade comes from Guizhou and Sichuan provinces.
Storage
Store dried bark in airtight container in cool, dry place. Can be stored for 2-3 years.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Kidney yin deficiency with heat signs (use cautiously with other yin tonics)Pregnancy (used in TCM to prevent miscarriage, but should only be prescribed by qualified practitioner)Low blood pressure (hypotension)Generally very safe with few contraindications
Possible Side Effects
- Very safe and well-tolerated
- Rare: mild digestive upset
- Allergic reaction (extremely rare)
- May lower blood pressure (monitor if on BP meds)
Drug Interactions
- Blood pressure medications (may enhance lowering effect - monitor closely)
- Diuretics
- Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar - mild effect)
- Generally low interaction risk
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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