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Tu Si Zi (菟絲子), the seed of Cuscuta (dodder), tonifies both Kidney yang and yin in a balanced way, secures the essence, benefits the eyes, supports the Spleen and calms the fetus.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Cuscuta chinensis (Semen Cuscutae)
Common English Name
Dodder seed
Taste
Acrid, sweet
Temperature
Neutral (slightly warm)
Channels Entered
Liver, Kidney, Spleen
Actions & Functions
- Tonifies Kidney yang and yin and secures the essence
- Benefits the eyes and improves vision
- Strengthens the Spleen and calms the fetus
Indications
Kidney deficiency with impotence, seminal emission, frequent urination and weak lower back; blurred vision from Liver and Kidney deficiency; and threatened miscarriage; also Spleen-deficient diarrhoea.
Dosage
6-15 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Gou Qi Zi and Shu Di Huang to tonify the Liver and Kidney and brighten the eyes.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution in yin deficiency with vigorous heat and in constipation.
