What are the harvesting and processing methods for Eucommia ulmoides?
How is Eucommia ulmoides harvested and processed? Please explain the methods. Eucommia ulmoides is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine, and harvesting is done by the bark-stripping method. In our province, the more suitable time for bark stripping is from June 20 to July 31. The climate is suitable during this period, and after stripping, Eucommia ulmoides readily regenerates new bark, with a high survival rate. When stripping bark, first make a ring cut around the upper and lower ends of the section of the trunk to be stripped...
How is Eucommia ulmoides harvested and processed? Please explain the methods
Eucommia ulmoides is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine, and harvesting is done by the bark-stripping method. In our province, the more suitable time for bark stripping is from June 20 to July 31. The climate is suitable during this period, and after stripping, Eucommia ulmoides readily regenerates new bark, with a high survival rate.
When stripping bark, first make a ring cut around the upper and lower ends of the section of the trunk to be stripped; generally, the upper cut is below the first large branch, and the lower cut is 5 cm above the root crown. Then make a longitudinal cut between the ring cuts. Whether ring cutting or longitudinal cutting, the depth of the cut should not penetrate the phloem. After cutting, use the tip of a knife to pry up the bark on one side of the longitudinal slit, then peel it outward, and accordingly cut off the bark connecting the upper and lower parts, until all of it is stripped off.
Generally 3 to 4 days after stripping, the surface appears yellow-green, indicating that callus tissue has formed, and new bark can gradually grow. One year after ring stripping, the regenerated new bark reaches a thickness of 5 to 6 mm; after two years, the thickness of the regenerated new bark is basically similar to that of the original bark.
To ensure the quality of Eucommia ulmoides bark, the harvested bark must be properly processed. The method is: place the harvested bark in a ventilated place sheltered from rain, stack it layer upon layer, cover it with dry grass, and press it tightly to sweat. When the bark becomes warm and the inner bark changes from white to brownish or blue-green, sweating is complete; take it out, sun-dry it, press it flat, and package it.
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