Chinese Dodder

Botanical

What is it

Chinese dodder (Cuscuta chinensis), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine as Tu Si Zi, is a parasitic vine whose seeds are used to tonify kidney essence, support fertility, and nourish vision.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Male fertility / libido

Limited Evidence

Animal studies and small Chinese trials suggest possible benefit, often within combination formulas. Quality evidence in isolated extracts is limited.

Bone / kidney support (TCM concept)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional indications; modern clinical correlates are not well-established.

How it works

Cuscuta seeds contain flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin glycosides), lignans, polysaccharides, and amino acids. Laboratory studies suggest antioxidant, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, and possible estrogen-modulating effects. In TCM it is considered a 'kidney yang' tonic, used for low libido, lower-back weakness, and frequent urination. Clinical evidence in humans is limited and mostly from small Chinese-language trials, often using combination formulas.

Dosage

Traditional decoction uses 6-12 g dried seed daily. Extract supplements typically suggest 500-2000 mg/day.

When and how to take it

Traditional use is divided across the day in decoction or capsule form. Effects on tonification are considered to build over weeks of consistent use.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Tu Si Zi (dried seed)

Standard TCM preparation.

Traditional decoction extraction.

Cuscuta chinensis seed extract

Used in modern herbal formulas.

Flavonoid content varies.

Safety

Generally well-tolerated at traditional doses. Mild GI upset is the main reported side effect. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless under TCM practitioner guidance. People with hormone-sensitive cancers should consult their oncologist. People taking immunosuppressants should consult a clinician.

Interactions

Theoretical estrogenic and immune-modulating activity warrants caution with hormone-sensitive conditions and immunosuppressants. Limited clinical interaction data.

Frequently asked questions

Does dodder help with fertility?⌄

Traditional use and some preliminary studies support a role, often within combination formulas, but rigorous human evidence is limited.

Is it safe for women?⌄

Traditional use includes both sexes, but pregnancy and hormone-sensitive conditions warrant caution.

References

Chinese Dodder on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Chinese Dodder on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chinese Dodder (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Chinese Dodder with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.