Du Zhong (Eucommia ulmoides bark) is far more than a bark—it’s one of the oldest and most respected treasures in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) apothecary. For over 2,000 years, Du Zhong has been the herbal backbone—literally and figuratively—for those seeking strength, vitality, and resilience. Often prescribed for lower back pain, weak knees, brittle bones, and reproductive challenges, it has also been revered for its calming effects on the fetus during pregnancy and its ability to regulate blood pressure naturally.
But Du Zhong’s story doesn’t end in ancient texts—it continues in modern wellness routines. Today, it's embraced not only by TCM practitioners but also by athletes, active aging adults, and anyone navigating chronic joint stress, muscular fatigue, or adrenal burnout. This bark is especially cherished in recovery and postpartum protocols, where rebuilding strength from the inside out is key.
What makes Du Zhong truly exceptional is its ability to nourish Kidney Yang, the source of physical stamina, structural integrity, and reproductive fire in TCM. Think of it as a stabilizer—for the spine, the mind, the uterus, and the spirit.
Whether you’re managing pain, rebuilding after injury, or simply aiming to age with grace and strength, Du Zhong offers a natural, time-tested solution. It’s not just an herb—it’s a return to your roots.
Quick Facts on Du Zhong
Pinyin Name: Du Zhong
Botanical Name: Eucommia ulmoides
English Name: Eucommia Bark
TCM Category: Herbs That Tonify Yang
Properties: Sweet, Slightly Pungent, Warm
Meridians Entered: Liver, Kidney
In TCM, Du Zhong is primarily used to tonify the Liver and Kidney, which are considered the foundational organs for strength, vitality, reproductive function, and skeletal integrity.
Tonifies the Kidney Yang to support lower back and knee strength
Strengthens bones and sinews (ligaments and tendons)
Calms the fetus during pregnancy (especially with Kidney deficiency symptoms)
Assists with dizziness or lightheadedness caused by Liver and Kidney weakness
It’s commonly used in formulas when there is chronic back pain, knee weakness, frequent miscarriage, or lumbar fatigue, particularly in older adults or postpartum women.
Du Zhong is rich in lignans, flavonoids, iridoids, and chlorogenic acid, all of which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, bone-protective, and neuroprotective effects.
Joint & Back Support: Studies confirm that Du Zhong may protect cartilage, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility in lumbar and knee-related conditions.
Bone Density: Eucommia extract shows promise in increasing bone mineral density, making it a potential ally in osteoporosis prevention.
Blood Pressure Support: Contains compounds shown to help relax blood vessels and support healthy circulation.
Stress Resilience: May modulate the HPA axis, helping the body better respond to stress.
PubMed Studies:
Eucommia ulmoides and bone health: PMID: 26579402
Anti-hypertensive effect: PMID: 15720792
| Form | Dosage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Decoction (tea) | 9–15g dried bark | Simmer 20–30 min, often with other yang-tonics |
| Powder | 1–3g/day | Add to warm water, tea, or capsules |
| Tincture/Extract | As directed | Look for 5:1 or 10:1 standardized extracts |
Dosage Disclaimer:
The dosage recommendations provided in this article are general guidelines based on traditional use and published research. Every individual is different, and factors such as age, weight, health condition, and concurrent medications may affect what dosage is appropriate for you. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any new herbal regimen to determine the amount and form that’s best suited to your personal health needs.
Ingredients:
10g Du Zhong
8g Xu Duan (Dipsacus)
6g Gou Ji (Cibotium)
3 slices fresh ginger
Instructions:
Add all herbs to 3 cups of water.
Simmer gently for 30 minutes.
Strain and drink warm, 1 cup per day.
This formula supports the lower back, joints, and post-exercise recovery.
Pairing Du Zhong with complementary herbs is a long-standing practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where synergistic combinations amplify therapeutic outcomes. Du Zhong provides yang-tonifying strength and structural support, while its paired herbs target specific imbalances—together enhancing the formula’s overall effectiveness.
| Herb | Best For | Common Pairing | Why They Work Together |
| Xu Duan | Bone trauma, miscarriage prevention | Du Zhong + Xu Duan | Xu Duan also tonifies Liver and Kidney while promoting blood circulation and healing of broken bones. When paired with Du Zhong, the duo becomes a powerful formula for restoring skeletal integrity and stabilizing the uterus—ideal for post-trauma or prenatal use. |
| Gou Ji | Arthritis, sinew pain | Du Zhong + Gou Ji | Gou Ji excels at dispelling wind-damp and alleviating pain in the lower back and limbs. When combined with Du Zhong, it strengthens sinews while addressing the external pathogenic factors causing stiffness and pain—great for chronic joint or arthritic conditions. |
| Dang Gui | Blood deficiency | Du Zhong + Dang Gui | Dang Gui nourishes and invigorates the blood, which complements Du Zhong’s yang-tonifying effect. This combination supports hormonal balance, postpartum recovery, and chronic fatigue rooted in both qi and blood deficiency. |
| Huai Niu Xi | Knee & hip stiffness | Du Zhong + Niu Xi | Huai Niu Xi is known for guiding herbs downward and improving circulation in the lower body. When used with Du Zhong, it enhances the herb’s action on the legs and lumbar region while reducing inflammation and promoting movement of blood and qi. |
Q: Can Du Zhong be taken long term?
A: Yes, when used appropriately. It’s often taken for months to support joint, back, and fertility health.
Q: Is Du Zhong safe during pregnancy?
A: Yes, it’s traditionally used to calm the fetus—but only under guidance from a qualified herbalist or practitioner.
Q: What's the difference between Du Zhong and Xu Duan?
A: Both support joints and tendons, but Du Zhong is more warming and yang-tonifying, while Xu Duan also treats trauma and stops uterine bleeding.
Looking for high-quality Du Zhong? Choose organic, lab-tested bark free of fillers or dyes. We offer verified GMP-certified Du Zhong.
Shop Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark) See all forms and size below
Du Zhong (Eucommia Bark) is a cornerstone herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, valued for its ability to strengthen the body from the ground up—supporting the spine, joints, tendons, reproductive system, and overall vitality. Backed by thousands of years of use and modern scientific validation, it's a trusted ally for those seeking long-term joint health, fertility support, and stability in both body and mind.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
NuHerbs Lab Tested
Herbal Information for Andrographis Herb in Cut Form
Nu Herbs Lab Tested
Uncaria spp. (Gou Teng): The Hooked Vine That Calms the Mind and Balances the Body Few herbs in the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine offer the remarkable versati
Nuherbs Organic
Herbal Information for Eleuthero Root in Organic Powder Form Eleuthero root powder is a versatile and powerful herb that offers a host of benefits for the body and mind. Whether you're looking to...
ActiveHerb
Cordyceps .9x Mushroom Extract Granules: Potent Energy and Immune Support Cordyceps mushroom extract granules are a concentrated form of the Cordyceps mushroom, specifically prepared for ease of
Nuherbs Organic
Herbal Information on Organic Japanese Bushy Knotweed Rhizome in Bulk Powder Form Hu Zhang: Unveiling the Miraculous Benefits of Japanese Knotweed Hu Zhang, also known as Jap
Plum Flower Powders
Andrographis Powder 5 Kilogram Bulk Bag (1 single bag) Why Is Andrographis Revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
ActiveHerb
Herbal Information for Raw Rehmannia Root Single Extract FormSheng Di Huang: A Comprehensive Overview
Nuherbs Organic
Herbal Information for White Lotus Seeds Health Benefits of White Lotus Seeds White lotu
Nuherbs Organic
Yi Yi Ren (Job's Tears): Digestive Support, Dampness Removal, and Wellness Benefits Herbal Information for Coix Seed in Whole Seed Form
NuHerbs Lab Tested
Astragalus Root Powder: A Potent Boost for Immunity and Vitality Astragalus root powder, derived from the Astragalus membranaceus plant, has a long-standing reputation in Traditional Chi
NuHerbs Lab Tested
Huang Bai Fen – Phellodendron Bark Powder to Clear Heat, Dry Dampness, and Detoxify Harness the power of Huang Bai (Phellodendron
Z Natural Products
Herbal Information for Organic Turmeric Powder What Is The Historical Use Of Turmeric Root?Turmeric root has been used for over 4,000 years in various cultures for its medicinal, culinary, and