Amur Cork Tree (Phellodendron amurense)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rutaceae
• Common Names: Amur Cork Tree, Huang Bai, Amur Tree Bark
• Parts Used: Bark

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Description

Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as Amur cork tree, is a deciduous tree native to East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan. The tree’s bark has been widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and liver-supportive properties. Rich in berberine, Amur cork tree bark is valued for its role in addressing infections, digestive disorders, and metabolic imbalances.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as one of the key herbs in the classical formula Huang Lian Jie Du Tang for clearing heat and dampness.
• Employed for centuries to treat infections, diarrhea, and liver ailments.
• Traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory for joint pain and skin conditions.
• Applied externally for wound healing and skin infections.

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Constituents

• Alkaloids (berberine, palmatine)
• Flavonoids
• Lignans
• Essential oils
• Tannins

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Actions

• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Hepatoprotective (Liver tonic)
• Antidiarrheal
• Antioxidant
• Blood sugar regulator

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Medicinal Uses

1. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Used to promote liver detoxification, reduce liver inflammation, and improve bile flow.

2. Digestive Health:
Traditionally taken to relieve diarrhea, dysentery, and digestive discomfort.

3. Antimicrobial Properties:
Effective against bacterial, fungal, and viral infections due to its berberine content.

4. Inflammatory Conditions:
Used for arthritis, joint pain, and chronic inflammatory conditions.

5. Metabolic and Blood Sugar Support:
Berberine in the bark helps regulate blood sugar levels and may support metabolic health.

6. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied externally for eczema, rashes, and bacterial or fungal skin infections.

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Preparation and Dosage

Decoction (Tea from Bark):

• 1-2 tsp of dried bark per cup of water. Simmer for 20 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed bark or powder mixed with water and applied to wounds or inflamed skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to its strong alkaloid content.
• Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure; use with caution in individuals prone to hypotension.
• Long-Term Use: Prolonged use may disrupt gut flora; consider probiotic support.
• Drug Interactions: May interact with blood sugar medications, anticoagulants, and antibiotics.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears heat, drains dampness, detoxifies the body, and supports liver and kidney function.
• Ayurveda: Cooling and bitter; balances Pitta and Kapha but may aggravate Vata in excess.
• Traditional Western Herbalism: Used for infection control, liver support, and metabolic regulation.

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Combinations

• For Liver Support: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and chamomile.
• For Infections: Combine with goldenseal and Oregon grape root.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Bark is sustainably harvested from mature trees.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried bark and extracts in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Phellodendron amurense’s antimicrobial, liver-supportive, and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Amur Cork Tree remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for liver health, inflammation relief, and metabolic balance.