Dodder Seed

Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi): A Pungent, Sweet, Neutral Food Therapy for Tonifying Kidney Yang, Securing Essence, and Supporting Vision

Introduction

Dodder Seed, known as Tu Si Zi (菟丝子) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy, is traditionally used to tonify the Kidney, secure Essence (Jing), and support reproductive and visual health. Pungent, sweet, and neutral in nature, it is valued for strengthening Yang while also nourishing Yin without being overly drying or heating.

What Is Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi)?

Dodder Seed is the dried mature seed of Cuscuta chinensis, a parasitic vine used in TCM for centuries. Unlike strongly heating Kidney Yang tonics, Tu Si Zi is considered balanced and gentle, making it suitable for long-term support. It has a mild taste and is often stir-fried before use to enhance its tonifying properties.

Health Benefits of Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi)

Tonifies Kidney Yang
Dodder Seed supports Kidney function and helps strengthen lower back and knee weakness associated with deficiency patterns.

Secures Essence (Jing)
Traditionally used to help stabilize Essence and support reproductive health in both men and women.

Supports Vision
Helps nourish the Liver and Kidney to support eye health, especially in deficiency-related blurred vision.

Stabilizes Urinary Function
May be used in TCM patterns involving frequent urination due to Kidney deficiency.

How to Use Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi)

In Soups
Often added to nourishing broths with chicken, pork, or other Kidney-tonifying ingredients.

Herbal Decoctions
Simmer gently for 20–30 minutes to extract its properties for short-term supportive use.

Powdered Form
Ground into powder and added to warm water, porridge, or honey mixtures.

For Long-Term Support
Commonly used in formulas addressing chronic Kidney deficiency patterns rather than acute conditions.

Where to Buy Dodder Seed

You can find Dodder Seed at:

• Chinese herbal shops
• TCM pharmacies
• Asian grocery stores with herbal sections
• Online herbal retailers

Look for:

• Small, round yellow-brown seeds
• Clean, dry appearance
• No mold or clumping
• Mild, neutral aroma

Are There Any Side Effects?

Dodder Seed is generally considered safe when used appropriately as a food therapy herb. Because it tonifies and secures, individuals with significant excess Heat or acute infections should use caution. As with any herbal ingredient, moderation is recommended.

Conclusion

Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi) is a balanced TCM food therapy herb used to tonify Kidney Yang, secure Essence, support vision, and promote overall vitality.

FAQs

Is Dodder Seed toxic?
No, it is considered non-toxic when used appropriately in food or herbal preparations.

Can Dodder Seed be used daily?
Yes, it is often used for ongoing support when prepared properly and used in appropriate amounts.

Is Dodder Seed warming or cooling?
It is considered neutral with mildly warming qualities, supporting Kidney function without being strongly heating.