Eucommia Leaf Tea (Du Zhong Ye Cha)

Why people make this tea

Eucommia bark (du zhong) is one of the most respected herbs in Chinese medicine for supporting the liver, kidneys, and musculoskeletal system, but the bark requires long simmering to extract its benefits. The leaf buds of the same tree offer a convenient and affordable alternative: research indicates that eucommia leaves share substantially the same active compounds as the bark. When buying eucommia leaf, look out for two types — one with stems and leaves mixed together, and one selling only young tender leaf buds. The buds are significantly better quality and are worth the extra attention when selecting.

Method

1. Place the eucommia leaf buds in a teapot or heatproof cup.
2. Pour a small amount of boiling water over the leaves, swirl briefly, and discard — this first rinse removes any dust and opens the leaves.
3. Pour fresh boiling water to fill. Steep for 5 minutes.
4. Drink warm; the tea can be re-steeped 1–2 times until the flavour fades.

Nourilo’s Tips

The tender bud variety has a mild, slightly bitter taste — far more palatable than the bark, which requires cooking with meat and dates to become drinkable. A quick way to identify quality eucommia: snap a leaf in two; you should see fine, elastic white threads (like tiny rubber strings) stretching between the two halves — just like the bark. If no threads appear, the quality may be lower. Drink 4–5 times a week, not every day. One liang (about 38 g) will last for 6–7 sessions.