Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae) is from the bark of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., family Eucommiaceae. The bark is collected from the tree from April to May. It is then scrapped, dried in the sun and cut into segments. It is used in either its crude form or after being stir-baked with a salt solution.
Category: Tonifying – Yang Tonifying.
Common Name: Eucommia Bark.
Channels Entered: Kidney and Liver.
Properties and Functions: Du Zhong is sweet in flavour and warm in nature. It acts to tonify the Liver and Kidneys, strengthening bones and sinews. It facilitates the flow of Qi and Blood, calms the fetus and also alleviates dizziness and light-headedness due to Liver Yang rising.
Indications: Clinical indications for Du Zhong include:
- Liver and Kidney deficiency manifesting as a cold sensation in the lower back; weakness, soreness and pain in the lower back and knees; Fatigue; Urinary frequency.
- Cold from deficiency of the Kidneys with bleeding during pregnancy. It prevents miscarriage when fetus is restless and aggitated.
- Weakness of bones and sinews due to poor circulation of Blood and Qi stagnation or Qi deficiency.
Dosage: 9 – 15g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: It should be used with caution cases presenting with Heat due to Yin deficiency. It anatagonises Xuan Shen.