Dù zhòng (Eucommia Bark; 杜仲) has the function of tonifying the kidneys and liver, and is commonly used for strengthening weak bones and joints and improving reproductive health. It warms the kidney Yang, making it beneficial for those suffering from Yang deficiency, such as painful lower back and knees, averse to cold, low libido, fatigue, general weakness, dark eye circles, infrequent or delayed menstruation, etc.
Benefits:
● Treats soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees
● Reduces lower back pain due to menstrual period and rheumatoid arthritis
● Regulates Qi and blood
● Calms the fetus and stabilises pregnancy
● Prevents bleeding or painful back during pregnancy
● Supports postpartum recovery
● Lowers blood pressure
Suitable for whom:
Recommended for individuals who need to stand for long periods, seniors, sports athletes, moms who have just experienced childbirth delivery, and individuals who experience back pain, poor physical strength, or weakness in the legs.
Contraindications:
To be used with caution for those with signs of heatiness due to Yin deficiency (e.g. dry throat, dry eyes, hot palms and soles, dry stools, or constipation).
Note:
Please consult a licensed TCM practitioner before using any herbs during pregnancy.
Ingredients:
Dù zhòng (Eucommia Bark; 杜仲)
Origin:
Szechuan, China
Dosage:
10g to 15g
Storage:
Best kept refrigerated
How to cook Eucommia black bean soup (杜仲黑豆汤):
Rinse herbs before use. Soak the black beans for an hour before use. Add 1/2 black chicken, 50g dù zhòng (杜仲), 100g black beans (黑豆), 25g huái shān (淮山), 25g dǎng shēn (党参), 8 red dates (红枣), 3 black dates (黑枣), and 3-4 dried Hokkaido scallops (干贝) into a pot. Add sufficient water to cover all the ingredients. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer under low heat for 2 hours. Add a handful of wolfberries in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Serve it warm. This nourishing soup helps strengthen the waist and back, tonify Qi, and nourish the blood. (Serving size: 3 to 4)
In Chinese medicine, the kidneys perform a broader range of functions than just regulating the body's fluid balance and excreting waste. Our kidneys store our body’s essence (life force energy), which can be transformed into Qi and blood, and forms the foundation of Yin and Yang in the body. They are vital in supporting our growth, development, reproductive and sexual health. Our bones, joints, marrow, brain, hair, teeth, hearing, and even the lungs’ reception of Qi are all interconnected with our kidneys.
Our kidney essence naturally declines as we get older, and can get depleted faster due to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, chronic stress, overworking, and overindulgence in sex. Replenishing the kidney essence with Yang tonics — such as Dù zhòng (杜仲), cordyceps (冬虫夏草), and Deer Antler Velvet (Lù róng; 鹿茸) — along with a balanced diet and lifestyle can help to slow down aging.
Apart from tonifying the kidneys, Du Zhong (杜仲) also tonifies the liver, which stores blood, circulates Qi (energy) in the body, as well as regulates any emotional disturbances. In women's physiology, the liver also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle by moving Qi and blood.
Note:
The information above serves as a general guide only. Please consult a licensed TCM practitioner for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
