Cuscuta Seed Chinese Herb

Cuscuta Seed (Tu Si Zi): A Sweet Herb for Tonifying Yang and Nourishing Essence

Introduction

Cuscuta seed, known as Tu Si Zi (菟丝子) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is sweet, acrid, and warm. It is valued for tonifying the Kidney and Liver, nourishing essence, and improving vision. Tu Si Zi is especially used for fatigue, lower back pain, impotence, frequent urination, and blurred vision caused by Kidney and Liver deficiency. Its gentle, balanced nature makes it suitable for both tonifying and stabilizing body essence.

What Is Cuscuta Seed?

Tu Si Zi comes from the dried mature seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam., a parasitic vine also known as Chinese dodder. In TCM, it enters the Liver and Kidney meridians. Its warm yet mild nature helps strengthen Yang without causing dryness, while also supporting Yin and essence, making it unique among tonics.

Health Benefits of Cuscuta Seed

Tonifies Kidney Yang – Strengthens lower back, knees, and reproductive function.

Nourishes Liver and Kidney Yin – Improves blurred vision and dizziness from deficiency.

Stabilizes essence and prevents leakage – Helps treat frequent urination, spermatorrhea, and vaginal discharge.

Supports fertility and vitality – Used to enhance reproductive health in both men and women.

How to Use Cuscuta Seed

Decoction – Commonly boiled with other tonics like goji berry or dodder vine for Kidney deficiency.

Powder or Pills – Often used in tonic formulas for reproductive health and vision improvement.

Where to Buy Cuscuta Seed

TCM shops/herbal suppliers – Sold as small, round yellow-brown seeds.

Online herbal retailers – Available as dried seeds, granules, or powder.

Look for: clean, plump seeds with a slightly aromatic, nutty scent.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Cuscuta seed is generally safe when used properly. Excessive use may cause constipation or dry mouth. Avoid in cases of Yin deficiency with heat or constipation.

Conclusion

Cuscuta seed (Tu Si Zi) is a sweet, warm herb that tonifies Kidney Yang, nourishes essence, and improves vision. It is especially beneficial for fatigue, reproductive weakness, and blurred vision due to deficiency.

FAQ

Can it help with fatigue? – Yes, it strengthens the Kidney and supports overall vitality.

Is it good for vision? – Yes, it nourishes the Liver and improves blurred or dim vision.

Can it support fertility? – Yes, it enhances reproductive health and stabilizes essence in both men and women.