You must be wondering what could be the benefits of a tree bark? Get ready to be taken by storm when you get to know about it. A part of Chinese medicine since ages, this magical herb is something that needs a place in your pantry today! But first let us tell you all about it:
What is Eucommia Bark and where does it come from?
The tree is native to China but botanists have discovered that the tree was previously in the prehistoric times Eucommia belonged to Europe and North America. But due to geographical changes now, this tree is only associated with China where it is used for medicinal purposes.
The scientific name is Eucommia ulmoides Oliv while natives call it Du Zhong in China. The tree is one of its kind as it produces rubber and can bear cold temperatures.
In the bark of the tree, rubber known as pure white latex is produced which is hard in texture and is known as “gutta-percha”. A good quality Eucommia tree contains 3% to 10% latex. The older the tree gets, the thicker the bark gets and stronger is the latex produced from it. The gum obtained from this magical tree has the ability to get dissolved in alcohol but it cannot be dissolved in water.
Often referred to as primary tonic herb in the Chinese medicine just like ginseng, one of the Eucommia bark’s popular uses is as a supplement.
Get ready to be amazed by the mind-blowing benefits of Eucommia Bark aka Du Zhong.
Benefits of Eucommia Bark
Let’s not any further and get started on the amazing benefits of Eucommia Bark. Here are a few benefits amongst many that you must know at all costs in order to incorporate it in your diet, have a look:
1. Making your Bones and Joints stronger
Bones are referred to as living tissue in the body. The structure of the body and our movements and actions are dependent on the skeleton or in other words bones. There is a reservoir of important ions in them which are calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium. In addition to these ions there are inorganic salts present in the matrix too which are salts of phosphate and calcium. As bone is a living tissue, a process called bone remodelling cycle is continuously going on inside the bone matrix. Two types of bone cells known as osteoblasts and osteoclasts are involved in the maintenance of the bone structure.
It has been studied that during the bone remodelling cycle going on in the bone, Eucommia bark extracts show a powerful effect at every step of the process. In addition to this important function, Eucommia bark performs other functions as well that involve bone strengthening and strengthening of the skeleton. Moreover, in Chinese medicine it is used as pain relief for lower back pain. Providing relief from Osteoporosis is also a remarkable benefit of Eucommia.
2. Lowering High Blood Pressure and Heart Health
High blood pressure or hypertension can be treated with the help of Eucommia bark extracts and this has been proven by a study as well. It was seen that the Eucommia extracts have the ability to block the action epinephrine, a hormone, which one released into the bloodstream increases the blood pressure.
Eucommia has also shown an antihypertensive effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. The Vasorelaxant effect of Du Zhong has also been reported which is important for heart health.
3. Antioxidant Capacity
Eucommia plant extracts have the ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by the free radicals which is known as antioxidant capacity. Not only the extract but the seeds and the leaves also show a great antioxidant effect. Including a herb in your diet that naturally comes with an antioxidant capacity is never a bad idea, is it?
4. Diabetes
There is good news for all the diabetics. Du Zhong components have a promising effect in controlling diabetes as well providing relief in the complications that come with this metabolic disease. A six week study on mice showed the decrease in the diabetes levels of the animal.
Also studies have shown that this Chinese rubber tree extract has shown to reduce insulin resistance which plays a pivotal role in diabetes.
5. Neuroprotective Functions
Yes you read that right. Eucommia bar has conquered these fields as well. As Eucommia is referred to as kidney tonic, it directly nourishes cognitive abilities. Tea made from the bark or extracts obtained from it are referred to as general tonic for the central nervous system. The mind relaxing effects of Eucommia are our favourite as It has the role in the alleviation of stress, anxiety as well as protection against adrenal fatigue. Research has shown that it can also reduce cytotoxicity . Du Zhong extracts have shown to improve cognitive learning skills as well as memory. EUE (Eucommia extracts) prevent neural degeneration as well. The neuroprotective functions make it an option of the treatment of diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
6. Pregnancy
This herb is used to address many pregnancy related issues like miscarriage risk or threatened abortion. Moreover, in case of a restless fetus, it reduces movements.
Side Effects of Eucommia Bark
It is a very mild herb and luckily it has no side effects or even drug interactions. The reason it has been used in China for centuries now. And recently has been used in the manufacture of commercial products.
There are many herbs in the world that have high tolerance in both animals and humans are this effective. Many studies have been done on this miraculous herb and no side effects or toxicity has been reported even on high consumption.
Final Verdict
Rightfully referred to as tonic, this Chinese rubber tree extract or Du Zhong has been a part of Chinese herbal medicine since centuries and holds a very esteem position. It is now time that we make it a part of our diet too as there are literally no side effects of using this only some amazing benefits.
