Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 245-258 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 254 6 Traditional vs. Modern Applications 6.1 Traditional medicinal uses in Chinese medicine Eucommia ulmoides, known as Dù-zhòng in Chinese, has been a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for nearly two thousand years. Historically, various parts of the plant, including the leaf, stem, bark, and staminate flower, have been utilized to treat a wide array of ailments. Traditional applications include the treatment of lumbar and knee pain, osteoporosis, hepatoprotection, paralysis, intestinal hemorrhages, vaginal bleeding, abortion, spermatorrhea, foot fungus, and anti-aging (He et al., 2014). The plant's use is deeply rooted in Chinese medicine theory, emphasizing its role in disease adaptation and overall health maintenance (Wang et al., 2019). 6.2 Modern pharmacological research Modern research has significantly expanded our understanding of the pharmacological properties of Eucommia ulmoides. Studies have isolated and identified numerous active compounds, including lignans, iridoids, flavonoids, phenols, steroids, and terpenes, which exhibit a wide range of biological activities. These compounds have been shown to possess antihypertensive, antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-aging, anti-cancer, and immunoregulatory properties. For instance, chlorogenic acid-enriched extracts from the bark have demonstrated neuroprotective and antidepressant-like effects by promoting serotonin release and enhancing synapsin I expression (Wu et al., 2016). Additionally, iridoid glycosides from the seed meal have shown significant anti-inflammatory activities (Ma et al., 2022). 6.3 Integration of traditional knowledge with modern science The integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific research has opened new avenues for the comprehensive utilization of Eucommia ulmoides. Traditional uses have provided a foundation for identifying potential therapeutic applications, which modern pharmacological studies have further validated and expanded upon. For example, the traditional use of Eucommia ulmoides for treating hypertension and diabetes has been supported by modern studies demonstrating its efficacy in managing these conditions through various bioactive compounds (Huang et al., 2021). Moreover, the exploration of different parts of the plant, such as leaves and seeds, which were traditionally underutilized, has revealed their potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications (Xing et al., 2019). This holistic approach not only enhances the medicinal value of Eucommia ulmoides but also promotes sustainable use of the plant resources. By bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern science, researchers can develop more effective and accessible treatments, ensuring that the rich heritage of traditional Chinese medicine continues to benefit contemporary healthcare. 7 Safety and Toxicology of Eucommia ulmoides Compounds 7.1 Toxicity studies and findings E. ulmoides Oliver, commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, has been subjected to various toxicity studies to evaluate its safety profile. Acute and sub-chronic toxicity tests, including the Ames test, bone marrow micronucleus assay, and chromosomal aberration assay, have shown that E. ulmoides extract (EUE) is non-genotoxic within specific dose ranges. However, long-term administration of high doses has been associated with nephrotoxicity. Specifically, a 13-week study revealed dose-dependent increases in nephrotoxicity-related indices and pathological changes in renal tissues, which were partly reversible after ceasing the low dosage but persisted at higher dosages (Luo et al., 2020). Additionally, while E. ulmoides has demonstrated various pharmacological benefits, further toxicity and clinical studies are warranted to establish more detailed safety data on both crude extracts and pure compounds (He et al., 2014). 7.2 Safe dosage and administration Clinical trials have explored the safe dosage and administration of E. ulmoides extracts. For instance, a controlled clinical trial involving healthy adult subjects administered 500 mg of E. ulmoides extract three times daily for eight weeks, and another group received 1 g three times daily for two weeks. Both dosages were well-tolerated,
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