Du Zhong (Eucommia, 杜仲) can be used to treat high blood pressure. Du Zhong is also an anti-aging remedy.
Du Zhong (Eucommia) has the ability to lower blood pressure. Most Chinese herbal formulas used to lower blood pressure contain eucommia. Du Zhong can lower the zinc/copper ratio, which is significantly higher in patients with high blood pressure than that in healthy people. Scientific experiments have shown that the blood pressure of anaesthetized canine can be lowered significantly by using Du Zhong.
Du Zhong (Eucommia) is often used in Chinese anti-aging formulas. According to traditional Chinese medical theory, “kidney” in lower abdomen is responsible for storing the essence of life, and is considered the root of life. Du Zhong has effects to tonify, strengthen and warm kidneys and liver, therefore it helps delay the aging process. Scientific experiments have shown that the extract of Du Zhong can protect mice from superoxidation injuries due to D-galactose-induced aging. Du Zhong is also shown to increase the activity of GSH-Px in aged mice.
Scientists have not found known side effects associated with Du Zhong, nor are there any reports of toxicity due to overdose. However, because Du Zhong (Eucommia) has an effect to lower blood pressure, if you have low blood pressure, you should not use it. And according to traditional Chinese medicine guidelines, patients who have blood deficiency should not use Du Zhong because Du Zhong has warming properties which means it has drying properties.
For more information about natural remedies and alternative cures for seniors, go to Natural Remedies Center: http://www.naturalremediescenter.com/treat/remedies-for-seniors/
