Eucommia Leaf (Du Zhong Ye) Tea

Why people make this tea

In a city that loves to eat — and where work means constant dining out — it’s easy to overdo the rich, fried foods and end up with high cholesterol or even a fatty liver without realizing it. Nourilo has shared hawthorn tea before, but that doesn’t suit those with excess stomach acid. This eucommia leaf tea is a gentle alternative: eucommia is a familiar herb traditionally used to support the liver and kidneys, strengthen the sinews and bones, and is associated with supporting healthy cholesterol and blood pressure. The leaf, brewed as tea, is also traditionally valued for its anti-aging reputation.

Method

1. Put the eucommia leaf in a pot and rinse once with boiling water.
2. Pour in fresh boiling water and steep for about 7 minutes.
3. Serve as a tea; you can re-steep until weak.

Nourilo’s Tips

Modern research suggests eucommia and its leaf may help support the liver and dilate the peripheral blood vessels, which is associated with lowering blood pressure; the leaf is also traditionally linked to better collagen turnover and supple skin, hence its anti-aging reputation when sipped regularly.