Evidence supporting the use of: Dodder
For the health condition: Emotional Sensitivity

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Dodder (Cuscuta spp.) has traditionally been used in various systems of herbal medicine, especially in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Tu Si Zi." It is commonly used to support kidney and liver health, reproductive function, and, more broadly, vitality and resilience. Within TCM, emotional sensitivity or emotional instability is sometimes attributed to imbalances in organ systems, and Dodder seed is occasionally recommended as part of formulas aimed at calming the mind and balancing emotions, particularly when these symptoms are believed to be secondary to kidney deficiency. However, there is little direct reference in classical texts to Dodder being used solely or specifically for emotional sensitivity; its use for this purpose is more indirect, working through perceived tonic effects on the body's foundational energies. Scientific research on Dodder’s psychoactive or mood-stabilizing effects is sparse, with most studies focusing on its antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and reproductive benefits. There is currently no robust clinical evidence to validate Dodder’s effectiveness for emotional sensitivity in the Western biomedical sense. Therefore, while tradition supports its use (albeit indirectly), the actual evidence base is weak, and its efficacy for this condition remains largely anecdotal and rooted in historical practice.

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