Evidence supporting the use of: Eucommia ulmoides
For the body system: Skeletal System (Bones)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3
Eucommia ulmoides, also known as Du Zhong, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for supporting the skeletal system, particularly for strengthening bones and tendons. According to TCM texts, Eucommia is believed to "tonify the liver and kidneys," organs thought to govern bone health. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as lower back pain, weakness of the knees, and to promote recovery from bone fractures.
Some preliminary scientific studies in animal models have shown that extracts of Eucommia ulmoides may influence bone metabolism, possibly by enhancing osteoblast (bone-forming cell) activity and inhibiting osteoclast (bone-resorbing cell) activity. Constituents such as lignans and iridoids have been identified as bioactive compounds with potential benefits for bone health. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the evidence base is not strong enough to fully validate its use from a modern biomedical perspective.
In summary, the use of Eucommia ulmoides to support bone health is primarily justified by traditional use, supported by a moderate level of preclinical research but minimal clinical evidence. Its reputation in TCM remains a key driver for its inclusion in bone-supportive formulas.
More about Eucommia ulmoides
More about Skeletal System (Bones)
Other ingredients that support Skeletal System (Bones)
alfalfaalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
sesame
boron
Indian frankincense
bovine
bovine gelatin
broccoli
calcium
cartilage
Chinese salvia root
chondroitin
cissus quadrangularis
collagen
collard
devil's claw
fish protein
gelatin
genistein
genistin
green lipped mussel
horsetail
ipriflavone
magnesium
manganese
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
milk
phosphorus
protein
prune
rehmannia glutinosa
sardines
silicon
spinach
strontium
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin D3
vitamin K
seaweed
water
boneset
solomon's seal
eucommia
trace minerals
herbal blend (proprietary)
algae
soy isoflavones
Arugula
Antler
Achyranthes
Algas calcareas
Animal protein
Boswellic Acid
Beef
Bone Marrow
Baicalein
Bovine Protein
Borate
Boswellia
Bone Protein
bovine cartilage / glycosaminoglycan
Buckwheat
Comfrey
Chinese Silkvine
Chinese Mountain Ant
Citrate malate
Cod Liver Oil
Chinese Pond Turtle
Chuchuhuasi
Cruciferous
Corallina officinalis
Dolomite
Daidzein
Deer Velvet
Drynaria
Dipsacus
Egg
Elk antler
Eucommia ulmoides
Estrogen
fibroblast growth factor
Glycosaminoglycans
Isoflavones
Molasses
Milk Protein
Phosphate Salt
Soy Protein
Other body systems supported by Eucommia ulmoides
ArteriesBlood
Circulatory System
Glandular System
Heart
Immune System
Joints
Kidneys
Liver
Skeletal System (Bones)
Structural System
Urinary System