Wu Zhu Yu

Euodia ruticarpa

Physical Characteristics

Euodia ruticarpa is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft 10in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Anodyne Anthelmintic Antiinflammatory Antitumor Antiviral Appetizer Astringent Carminative Contraceptive Deobstruent Diuretic Miscellany Stimulant Stomachic Wu Zhu Yu has a marked warming effect on the body, helping to relieve headaches and a wide range of digestive problems[254]. The fruit is analgesic, anthelmintic, appetizer, astringent, carminative, decongestant, deobstruent, diuretic, stimulant, stomachic and uterotonic[174, 176, 178, 218, 240]. It is used in the treatment of gastritis, nausea, headaches, oedema, beriberi and post-partum pains[147]. The partially ripe fruit is gathered in late summer and can be dried for later use[254]. The root bark is astringent and vermifuge[218]. Extracts of the plant show antiviral, antitumor and anti-inflammatory activity[218]. This species was ranked 14th in a Chinese survey of 250 potential antifertility plants[218].

Known Hazards

None known