Eucommia Ulmoides 100:1 Extract (as Andro 100®)

## Introduction to Eucommia Ulmoides Eucommia ulmoides, traditionally known in Chinese medicine as 'Du Zhong' or the Hardy Rubber Tree, has been utilized for centuries to support vitality, longevity, and skeletal health. However, modern sports nutrition and biochemistry have recently unlocked a completely new application for this ancient botanical. Through advanced extraction techniques, scientists have discovered that specific lipidic compounds within Eucommia bark possess profound physiological effects, ranging from direct androgen receptor activation to clinical blood pressure reduction. Today, highly concentrated forms, such as the 100:1 ethanolic extract known as Andro 100®, are revolutionizing the natural anabolic market.

## The Discovery of Phytoandrogens For decades, the scientific community has been well-aware of 'phytoestrogens'—plant-derived compounds like soy isoflavones that can bind to human estrogen receptors. However, the existence of 'phytoandrogens'—plant compounds that bind to male hormone receptors—remained largely theoretical. Eucommia ulmoides changed this paradigm.

Research into Eucommia ulmoides revealed that it contains specific plant triterpenoids and lipidic augmenters (such as caprylic acid) that bind cognately to the ligand-binding domain of the human androgen receptor (AR). Unlike traditional testosterone boosters like Tribulus or Maca, which attempt to stimulate the pituitary gland to release more Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Eucommia directly interacts with the androgen receptor itself. This makes it a true phytoandrogen, capable of mimicking the muscle-building effects of testosterone at the cellular level.

## How Andro 100® Works in the Body The trademarked Andro 100® (also referred to as EU 80®) is a specialized 100:1 ethanolic extract designed to isolate these elusive phytoandrogens. When ingested, these compounds exhibit a phenomenal 'tripartite synergism.' They not only bind to the androgen receptor but also act as an amplifier for any existing androgens in the body. This means that whether you are relying on your natural testosterone production or utilizing exogenous compounds, Eucommia helps those hormones bind more effectively and exert a stronger anabolic signal.

Crucially, because these are plant-derived triterpenoids and not actual steroid hormones, they do not undergo 5-alpha-reduction. In the human body, testosterone is often converted by the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme into Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is heavily implicated in prostate enlargement and androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness). Eucommia provides the skeletal muscle benefits of androgen activation without these unwanted androgenic side effects.

## Muscle Preservation and Anti-Catabolic Effects Building muscle is only half the battle; preventing its breakdown is equally important. Recent studies, including a 2024 trial published in *Current Issues in Molecular Biology*, have highlighted Eucommia's powerful anti-catabolic properties. In models of aging and drug-induced muscle wasting, Eucommia extracts were shown to activate the PI3K/Akt pathway.

This pathway is the body's primary driver of muscle protein synthesis and cellular survival. By activating Akt, Eucommia effectively shuts down the expression of MuRF1 and Atrogin-1—two proteins responsible for tagging muscle tissue for destruction. Furthermore, the extract was shown to inhibit myostatin, the notorious protein that limits how much muscle the body can build. The result is a significant preservation of lean mass, increased muscle cross-sectional area, and improved physical strength.

## Cardiovascular Health and Blood Pressure One of the most unique aspects of Eucommia ulmoides is its dual-action profile: it is highly anabolic while simultaneously being cardioprotective. A clinical trial published in the *Alternative Medicine Review* tested a standardized aqueous extract of Eucommia bark on human subjects with prehypertension.

The study found that a dose of 1 gram taken three times daily significantly reduced blood pressure by an average of 7.5/3.9 mmHg over just two weeks. The researchers discovered that Eucommia acts as a beta-adrenergic blocker. By reducing isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis, the extract calms the sympathetic nervous system's stress on the cardiovascular system. Additionally, Eucommia increases nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity, leading to vasodilation. For athletes, this means better blood flow, enhanced nutrient delivery to working muscles, and massive pumps during training, all while keeping blood pressure in a healthy range.

## Dosing and Supplementation Strategies Clinical data suggests that for cardiovascular benefits, a dose of up to 3 grams per day (divided into three 1g doses) is highly effective and well-tolerated. In the realm of sports nutrition and muscle building, products utilizing the highly concentrated 100:1 extract (Andro 100®) typically dose between 750mg and 1500mg daily. Because Eucommia works through chronic accumulation and receptor modulation, it should be taken daily, even on non-training days, to maintain steady blood levels and continuous androgen receptor activation.

## Safety and Side Effects Eucommia ulmoides is generally considered very safe and has a long history of traditional use. Clinical trials in humans have reported no significant toxicity. Because it possesses beta-blocking properties and lowers blood pressure, individuals who already suffer from hypotension (low blood pressure) or bradycardia (slow heart rate) should consult a physician before use. Unlike traditional prohormones or anabolic steroids, Eucommia does not suppress natural testosterone production, nor does it cause liver toxicity, making it a safe, long-term option for natural athletes.