Synopsis

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

Chinese Dodder (Cuscuta chinensis), known as "Tu Si Zi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has a long history of use in supporting kidney health, including conditions like nephritis. In TCM theory, Chinese Dodder is believed to "tonify the kidneys," "secure the essence," and "nourish the liver," which encompasses a range of kidney-related disorders, such as those manifesting with edema, lower back pain, or urinary irregularities. Texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and modern TCM pharmacopeias document its use for these indications. However, the traditional framework does not directly map onto the biomedical diagnosis of nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys), and the rationales are rooted in TCM pattern diagnosis rather than modern pathology.

With regard to scientific evidence, there are a few animal studies that suggest extracts of Cuscuta chinensis may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could theoretically be beneficial in kidney diseases. Some research has shown possible renoprotective effects in laboratory animals with induced renal injury. However, these findings are preliminary, and there are no robust clinical trials demonstrating efficacy or safety in humans with nephritis. Thus, while there is historical and traditional precedent for its use, scientific validation for Chinese Dodder in the treatment or support of nephritis remains limited and inconclusive at this time.

More about Chinese Dodder
More about Nephritis

Other ingredients used for Nephritis

Other health conditions supported by Chinese Dodder

Products containing Chinese Dodder