Condition
Treatment Support
kidney tonic
Application
tea
Dodder
(Cuscuta chinensis)
Also know as Tu si zi
Botanical Information
A twining bright orange parastitic herb with small clusters of white flowers; native from China to Australia.
Working with Dodder
Part(s) Used
Seed
Herb Forms
Bulk herb
Christopher Hobbs:
“Dodder seed is a Chinese herb. It is regarded as a kidney tonic used to treat such symptoms as frequent urination, sore back, impotence, or leukorrea. It has also been used to treat threatened miscarriage and to stop diarrhea and is considered a sexual tonic.
Dodder sees has a taste of ACRID and SWEET and a temperature of NEUTRAL.”
Historical Uses
- Traditional medicine: Dodder has been used in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Chinese, Ayurvedic, and European practices, for its reputed benefits in promoting fertility, enhancing longevity, and improving overall vitality. It has been used to treat conditions like infertility, sexual dysfunction, and even gastrointestinal disorders.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
- Fertility and sexual health: Herbalists still commonly recommend dodder for its potential to support reproductive health, especially in cases of infertility or low libido. It’s often combined with other herbs to enhance fertility in both men and women.
- General vitality and immune support: Used as a tonic for strengthening the body and improving immunity, particularly for those recovering from illness or suffering from fatigue.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
- Active compounds: Dodder contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, lignans, and glycosides. These compounds are thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties.
- Parasitic nature: As a parasitic plant, dodder lacks chlorophyll and derives nutrients from its host plant, which limits its direct medicinal properties but may contribute to its ability to affect different systems within the body.
- Potential pharmacological effects: Some studies suggest dodder may have immunomodulatory effects, enhance circulation, and possess mild sedative and analgesic properties.
Clinical Trials
- Limited research: There are very few clinical trials on dodder in modern medicine. Most studies focus on its traditional uses or its bioactive components. Research into its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties is ongoing.
- Promising but inconclusive: Early studies have shown some potential in treating conditions like infertility or immune system disorders, but well-controlled clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy and safety conclusively.
Summary
Dodder has a rich history in traditional herbal medicine, particularly for supporting reproductive health and general vitality. While modern herbalists and naturopaths continue to use it for similar purposes, scientific research is still in its early stages. Caution is necessary regarding safety and dosage, as dodder can be toxic in excessive amounts. More robust clinical studies are needed to validate its therapeutic claims.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Toxicity: Although dodder is used in traditional medicine, its safety profile is not fully understood, and it can be toxic if consumed in excessive amounts or over long periods. Some species of dodder are known to be toxic to their host plants and could have adverse effects in high doses on humans.
Contraindications: Caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with existing medical conditions such as hypertension, since it may have an impact on blood pressure.
Consultation required: Because of its potential toxicity, it is essential to consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider before using dodder therapeutically.
Conditions treated with Dodder
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
kidney/bladder tonic
Application
tea, tincture, capsules, tablets
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
