Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dodder (Cuscuta spp.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where its seeds—commonly known as "Tu Si Zi"—are used to tonify the kidney and liver, improve vision, and support reproductive health. In the context of supporting circulation, dodder is not primarily known as a circulatory tonic; however, some traditional sources suggest it may have secondary benefits for circulation due to its overall effects on vitality and “yang” energy. For example, in TCM, poor circulation is sometimes associated with kidney yang deficiency, for which dodder seed is a common remedy.

From a scientific perspective, there is limited direct research linking dodder to improvements in human circulation. Some animal studies suggest that extracts of dodder seed may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could, in theory, benefit vascular health. Additionally, a few studies indicate potential protective effects against endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress, factors implicated in poor circulation. However, these findings are preliminary, mostly in vitro or in animal models, and do not directly confirm benefits for circulation in humans.

Overall, the use of dodder for poor circulation is primarily rooted in traditional practices rather than robust scientific evidence. While it remains a component of herbal formulas aimed at supporting general vitality and possibly vascular health, more rigorous clinical studies are needed to validate its specific efficacy for poor circulation.

More about dodder
More about Circulation (poor)

Other ingredients used for Circulation (poor)

Other health conditions supported by dodder

Products containing dodder

Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Negative Pack
Nature's Sunshine Nervous Fatigue Formula (Chinese)
Nature's Sunshine Nervous Fatigue TCM