Eucommia Bark

Eucommia Bark and Its Role in Arthritis Relief

Eucommia bark, derived from the tree Eucommia ulmoides, is a powerful herbal remedy traditionally used in Chinese medicine for strengthening bones, tendons, and joints. Known as “Du Zhong” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this herb is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and joint-repairing properties — making it especially valuable for individuals suffering from Arthritis, particularly Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid conditions.

While Eucommia is not native to Thailand, it is often included in modern Asian herbal formulas due to its long-standing effectiveness and growing global recognition.

Botanical Information

Scientific Name: Eucommia ulmoides
Common Names: Eucommia bark, Du Zhong (TCM), Rubber Tree Bark
Family: Eucommiaceae
Part Used: Dried bark (from mature branches or trunk)
Traditional Forms: Decoctions, tinctures, powders, capsules

Key Active Compounds

Eucommia bark is rich in compounds that offer therapeutic benefits for joint and connective tissue health, including:

Lignans (e.g., pinoresinol diglucoside): anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
Iridoids: support immune regulation and reduce inflammatory cytokines
Chlorogenic acid: powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress in joint tissues
Eucommiol and geniposidic acid: linked to pain relief and improved mobility
Natural rubber-like compounds (gutta-percha): believed to support flexibility in connective tissue

How Eucommia Bark Helps with Arthritis

1. Reduces Joint Inflammation

Studies have shown that Eucommia bark reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6, both of which are implicated in joint damage and swelling in rheumatoid and degenerative Arthritis.

2. Strengthens Tendons, Ligaments, and Bones

Traditionally known as a “bone and tendon tonic”, Du Zhong has been used for centuries to strengthen joints weakened by ageing or chronic inflammation. This is particularly beneficial for Arthritis sufferers experiencing joint instability or degeneration.

3. Alleviates Chronic Pain

Eucommia bark contains natural analgesic compounds that may reduce joint pain, especially when used consistently. Its pain-relieving effects are milder than pharmaceutical NSAIDs but come without the risk of gastric side effects.

4. Improves Flexibility and Joint Mobility

The herb is known for improving connective tissue elasticity and joint lubrication, which may support more comfortable movement in those with stiff or inflamed joints.

5. Balances the Immune System

In autoimmune forms of Arthritis, such as rheumatoid Arthritis, Eucommia bark helps modulate the immune system, reducing excessive immune attacks on joint tissue.

Traditional Use in Asian Herbal Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Eucommia bark has been used for:

Weak or painful knees and lower back
Joint instability due to tendon weakness
Rheumatic conditions
Fatigue and stiffness associated with ageing
Post-injury recovery of ligaments and joints

Often, it is combined with herbs such as Achyranthes root, Angelica sinensis, and Cinnamon twig to enhance blood flow and nourish joints.

Modern Scientific Research

Recent studies confirm many of its traditional claims:

A 2015 animal study published in Phytomedicine found that Eucommia extract significantly reduced cartilage degradation and inflammation in rats with osteoarthritis.
Research in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed Eucommia bark improved bone density and collagen production, supporting long-term joint and skeletal health.

These studies reinforce its use in natural Arthritis support formulas that aim to restore, not just mask, joint health.

Safety and Considerations

Generally considered very safe, especially in traditional dosage
May interact with blood pressure medications due to its mild hypotensive effect
Should be used under supervision during pregnancy due to its “warming” and stimulating effects in TCM
Well tolerated for long-term use in both oral supplements and topical creams

At Authentic Arthritis Asian Herbs, we only use clean, pesticide-free, lab-tested Eucommia bark sourced from reputable herbal suppliers. It is blended carefully with complementary herbs for a balanced, whole-body approach to joint wellness.

Eucommia bark (Du Zhong) is a powerful herbal ally in the battle against Arthritis. With centuries of use and a growing body of scientific support, it offers a safe, natural solution for improving joint strength, reducing inflammation, and relieving pain — without the harsh side effects of synthetic medications.

For Australians seeking a natural way to move with greater comfort, Eucommia bark provides relief that’s grounded in both science and tradition.

Authentic Arthritis Asian Herbs — supporting your movement, naturally.