Eucommia

Eucommia ulmoides is a deciduous tree. The bark is the part most frequently used medicinally and is usually harvested from Eucommia trees that are 15-20 years old. The tree is found in China where the bark has been used in Chinese herbology for several millenium. It's existence in the wild is threatened by modern civilization, however, today the tree is cultivated for its bark, which remains important to Chinese herbology. Its bark is one of the 50 fundamental herbs used in Chinese healing.

In traditional Chinese medicine the Eucommia is used to treat lower back pain, aching knees, and prevent miscarriage . It is also known as a superior Yang tonic. In this respect it is used to tonify the back (most specially the lower back), skeleton, and joints (with a special emphasis on the knees and ankles). The bark is believed to confer strength and flexibility to the ligaments and tendons. It is often used by athletes to strengthen the entire body. It is considered one of the great longevity tonics in Chinese herbal medicine. It is also believed to confer benefits as a marital tonic.

Studies have shown the bark has the ability to reduce blood pressure by inhibiting the beta adrenergic system. Eucommia may help with impotence and fatigue. It is believed to nourish the liverand tonify the kidneys. It is frequently included in compendiums known as "kidney energy formulas,"

Recently E-Helps has begun marketing a herbal preparation called BioDream for sleep that includes Eucommia as one of its principle ingredients. Eucommia's tonifying effect on the kidneys and thus the Chi, (blood circulation), and its anti-fatigue properties will have a significant bearing on the preparations's ability to promote restful sleep.