Concentrated Extract Of Eucommia
Also known as: Eucommia ulmoides Oliv., Du Zhong, Chinese Rubber Tree, Gutta-Percha Tree, Eucommiae cortex, Eucommiae folium, Eucommia ulmoides
Overview
Eucommia ulmoides, commonly known as Du Zhong or the Chinese Rubber Tree, is a plant native to China and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years. The bark (Eucommiae cortex) and leaves (Eucommiae folium) are the primary medicinal parts. It is known for its health-promoting properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potentially antiaging effects. The plant is rich in lignans, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its pharmacological activities. Research on Eucommia ulmoides is moderately mature, with increasing interest in its polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds. Available evidence is primarily based on animal studies and some human trials, but systematic reviews and meta-analyses are limited. It is available in various forms, including extracts and capsules.
Benefits
Eucommia ulmoides has shown potential benefits, primarily supported by animal studies and limited human trials. Studies in hypertensive mice indicate that it can reduce blood pressure by regulating gut microbiota and reducing serum levels of IL-6 and IL-17A, suggesting anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidant and antiaging effects are also documented, mainly based on in vitro and animal studies. Potential benefits may extend to individuals with hypertension and those seeking anti-inflammatory effects. However, specific effect sizes and the time course of benefits are not well-documented in human studies, highlighting the need for more rigorous clinical research.
How it works
Eucommia ulmoides exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are key mechanisms. Studies suggest it may influence cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and inflammation, potentially through regulation of gut microbiota. The specific molecular targets in humans are not yet fully identified. Poor oral bioavailability suggests that gut microbiota may play a significant role in its effects, potentially transforming the compounds into more bioavailable forms or mediating their activity.
Side effects
Eucommia ulmoides is generally considered safe, but comprehensive human safety data are limited. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-documented. Potential interactions with blood pressure medications exist due to its hypotensive effects. Contraindications are not well-established. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use due to limited safety data. Given the limited human data, caution is advised, and monitoring for potential adverse effects is recommended, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking medications.
Dosage
Due to limited human studies, a minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose of Eucommia ulmoides are not well-established. Traditional Chinese medicine uses it without specific dosing guidelines. It is available in various forms, including extracts and capsules. Poor oral bioavailability may affect its efficacy. Timing considerations are not well-studied. Until more data are available, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using Eucommia ulmoides to determine an appropriate and safe dosage.
FAQs
Should I consult a healthcare provider before using Eucommia ulmoides?
Yes, especially if you are taking blood pressure medications or have pre-existing health conditions, due to potential interactions and limited human safety data.
Is Eucommia ulmoides safe?
It is generally considered safe, but human data are limited. Monitor for potential adverse effects and consult a healthcare provider if you experience any issues.
What are the expected benefits of using Eucommia ulmoides?
Potential benefits include blood pressure reduction and anti-inflammatory effects, primarily supported by animal studies. Human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
How should I take Eucommia ulmoides?
Timing and administration are not well-studied. Follow the guidance of a healthcare provider or the instructions on the product label.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4793136/ – This review article highlights the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other pharmacological properties of Eucommia ulmoides. It provides a broad overview of the potential benefits based on existing literature, including both human and animal studies, but lacks a systematic review or meta-analysis.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2022.967649/full – This animal study on hypertensive mice found that Eucommia ulmoides reduces blood pressure by regulating gut microbiota. The study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of action but is limited by its animal model and lack of direct applicability to humans.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1421662/full – This review article discusses the biological functions of Eucommia ulmoides polysaccharides, including immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects. While it provides insights into specific components, it focuses on polysaccharides rather than the whole extract and lacks comprehensive human data.
- https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2019/12130/efficacy_and_safety_of_cortex_eucommiae__eucommia.58.aspx – This study investigates the efficacy and safety of Cortex Eucommiae (Eucommia bark). Further details about the study design, sample size, and key findings would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10834829/ – This article explores the potential of Eucommia ulmoides in addressing aging-related conditions. It highlights the plant's traditional use and its bioactive compounds, suggesting avenues for further research into its anti-aging properties and mechanisms.
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