Botanical atlas
Hardy Rubber Tree
Eucommia ulmoides
Eucommia has been a cornerstone of Chinese herbalism for close to two thousand years, prized above nearly every other bark for what practitioners called its ability to nourish the kidneys and liver and to strengthen the sinews and bones. It was traditionally reached for by the aging, the weary, and the achy, especially for a sore or weak lower back and stiff knees that come with a long life of hard work. Emperors and commoners alike drank Du Zhong tea as a daily fortifying brew, not as a medicine for the sick but as a quiet ally for staying strong. It also holds a long history of traditional use in supporting pregnancy and easing a tired, heavy body.
In tradition.
Eucommia has been a cornerstone of Chinese herbalism for close to two thousand years, prized above nearly every other bark for what practitioners called its ability to nourish the kidneys and liver and to strengthen the sinews and bones. It was traditionally reached for by the aging, the weary, and the achy, especially for a sore or weak lower back and stiff knees that come with a long life of hard work. Emperors and commoners alike drank Du Zhong tea as a daily fortifying brew, not as a medicine for the sick but as a quiet ally for staying strong. It also holds a long history of traditional use in supporting pregnancy and easing a tired, heavy body.
Traditional preparations.
The classic long-simmered preparation used in Chinese herbalism as a daily tonic.
Traditionally, about 2 to 3 grams of dried Eucommia bark is simmered gently in 2 cups of water for 15 to 20 minutes, then strained and sipped warm.
A lighter, more everyday infusion made from the leaves rather than the bark.
Traditionally, 1 teaspoon of dried Eucommia leaf is steeped in 250 ml of just-boiled water for 8 to 10 minutes, then strained before drinking.
Safety.
Eucommia bark tea is mild and well tolerated in normal amounts, but it has traditionally been used to support healthy blood pressure, so take care combining it with blood pressure medication. It has also traditionally been used to support pregnancy, so pregnant or nursing women shouldn't self-prescribe it and should check with a provider first.
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