Botanical Overview
Eucommia ulmoides, commonly referred to as Eucommia, hardy rubber tree, or Du Zhong, is the sole species of the Eucommiaceae family native to China and East Asia. The bark and leaves are primarily used in traditional medicine.
Energetics
- Temperature: Neutral
- Moisture: Neutral
- Tastes: Bitter, Pungent
- Directionality: Ascending
- Tonicity: Tonifying
- Qi/Blood/Fluid: Qi and Blood
Primary Actions
- Anti-hypertensive
- Anti-inflammatory
- Bone-strengthening
- Adaptogen
Indications
Western
- Hypertension
- Osteoporosis
- Lower back pain
- Joint weakness
Syndromes
TCM
- Weak lower back and knees
- Night sweating
- Headache
- Dizziness
Syndromes
- Kidney Yang deficiency
- Liver and Kidney deficiency
- Lower back pain due to deficiency
Ayurveda
Syndromes
Unani
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Eucommia ulmoides contains key phytochemicals including lignans, iridoids, chlorogenic acids, flavonoids, and polyphenols that contribute to its pharmacological effects such as anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of bark: 3–9 grams daily
- Leaf infusion: 2–6 grams daily
- Standardized extracts as per manufacturer instructions
Safety & Contraindications
Eucommia ulmoides is generally safe when used appropriately. There is limited data on use during pregnancy and lactation, so it is not recommended during those periods. It may potentiate the effects of anti-hypertensive drugs; blood pressure should be monitored.
Astrological Correspondences
No confirmed planetary or elemental rulers are established for this species.
Selected References
- Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv. (Zhao et al., 2018)
- Eucommia ulmoides (Du Zhong) – Chinese Materia Medica (Bensky, Clavey & Stöger, 2004)
- Pharmacological effects of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.: a review (Li et al., 2014)
- Safety and efficacy of Eucommia ulmoides in hypertension: a clinical study (Wang et al., 2019)