Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Chinese Dodder

Also known as: Chinese Dodder, Dodder Seed, Cuscuta chinensis Lam., Cuscuta reflexa, Tu Si Zi, Cuscuta chinensis

Overview

Chinese Dodder (Cuscuta chinensis) is a parasitic plant commonly utilized in traditional Chinese medicine. Its seeds contain various bioactive compounds believed to confer health benefits, particularly concerning urinary tract health, spleen function, psychiatric well-being, and liver support. Additionally, it is known for its antioxidant properties, which may help protect organs such as the liver and kidneys and nourish the nervous system. Although it has been traditionally employed for multiple ailments, modern empirical research is limited. Available studies often suffer from methodological challenges and small sample sizes, necessitating further investigation to validate the claims concerning its efficacy and potential therapeutic applications.

Benefits

Chinese Dodder Seed Extract is noted for its potential benefits in the management of atopic dermatitis, with a randomized, double-blind study linking it to reduced itching in eczema sufferers. However, the evidence remains inadequate, particularly in terms of sample populations. It has also been suggested, albeit without exhaustive proof, that the extract may assist in alleviating depression when used alongside antidepressants. While traditional and anecdotal claims advocate for its effectiveness in treating urinary disorders, spleen-related issues, and liver maladies, scientific support is lacking. Current evidence does not robustly support its use in cancer treatment or pain management, highlighting the need for more rigorous and expansive studies to confirm these purported benefits.

How it works

The therapeutic effects of Chinese Dodder Seed Extract are primarily linked to its antioxidant properties, which may play a role in modulating inflammatory and immune responses. By interacting with biological pathways associated with oxidative stress, the extract potentially offers protective effects for the liver, kidneys, and nervous system. However, the specific molecular targets of the active compounds remain largely undefined, and there is insufficient data on how these compounds are absorbed or their bioavailability in the body.

Side effects

Generally regarded as possibly safe when used for short durations, Chinese Dodder Seed Extract can be consumed at doses up to 2 grams daily for a period of 15 days to 8 weeks. Commonly reported side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances such as stomach upset and diarrhea, which affect over 5% of users. There is a lack of data on uncommon or severe adverse effects or drug interactions. Caution is advised for pregnant and breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data for these populations. Additionally, the long-term use or consumption beyond the recommended limits has not been adequately assessed, which raises concerns regarding potential safety risks.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Chinese Dodder Seed Extract is up to 2 grams per day, with a safe usage window ranging from 15 days to a maximum of 8 weeks. However, the minimum effective dose has not been clearly established, and there is a lack of information regarding the upper limits for safe consumption. The extract is available in several forms, with powdered and concentrated versions being the most common. Currently, there is no specific guidance on the timing of intake or factors that may influence its absorption in the body.