Synopsis

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

Dodder (Cuscuta spp.) is primarily used in traditional medicine systems, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), to support the kidneys and related body systems. In TCM, dodder seed (known as Tu Si Zi) is considered a tonic herb that nourishes the kidneys and liver, and is commonly used to address conditions such as lower back pain, reproductive health issues, and fatigue—symptoms often attributed to "Kidney deficiency" in TCM theory. Historical texts and modern herbal compendiums consistently cite dodder seed as a kidney-supportive herb.

There is limited scientific research investigating dodder’s effects on kidney function by modern biomedical standards. Some animal studies and in vitro experiments have evaluated potential nephroprotective (kidney-protecting) and antioxidant properties of dodder seed extracts, but these are preliminary and not directly transferable to clinical efficacy in humans. There is currently a lack of robust clinical trials or systematic reviews confirming dodder’s ability to support the kidneys in the way described by traditional use.

In summary, dodder’s reputation as a kidney-supporting herb is grounded in centuries of traditional use, especially in East Asian herbal medicine, rather than substantial modern scientific validation. Its use for this purpose remains largely traditional, with scientific support rated as weak or preliminary.

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