Cuscuta Seed (Cuscuta chinensis): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Questions fréquentes

How does Cuscuta seed work in the body?

Cuscuta seed contains bioactive compounds including kaempferol, quercetin, hyperoside, and cuscutine, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. These flavonoids exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support kidney and liver function. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cuscuta seed tonifies the kidney and liver, replenishing essence and supporting reproductive health. Research suggests potential mechanisms involving hormonal modulation and oxidative stress reduction, though evidence remains preliminary (Level C).

Does Cuscuta seed interact with any medications?

Limited research exists on specific drug interactions with Cuscuta seed. Due to its traditional effects on reproductive hormones, caution is advised when combining it with hormonal medications, fertility drugs, or hormone replacement therapy. Theoretically, its kidney-tonifying properties may interact with diuretics or medications affecting renal function. Patients taking prescription medications should consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before adding Cuscuta seed to their regimen.

What is the recommended dosage for Cuscuta seed?

The standard adult dosage for Cuscuta seed is 9-15 grams daily when prepared as a decoction, or 500-1000mg daily as a standardized extract. In Traditional Chinese Medicine practice, it is typically combined with other herbs in formulated prescriptions rather than used as a single herb. Dosage should be adjusted based on individual constitution and the specific condition being addressed. Consult a qualified herbalist for personalized recommendations.

Is Cuscuta seed safe during pregnancy?

Despite its traditional use to 'secure the fetus' and prevent miscarriage in Chinese Medicine, Cuscuta seed is considered unsafe for self-administration during pregnancy. The herb may stimulate uterine activity and affect hormonal balance. Traditional contraindications include Yin deficiency with fire patterns. Pregnant women should not use this herb without direct supervision from a qualified TCM practitioner who can properly assess individual circumstances and risk factors.

Can Cuscuta seed help with fertility issues?

Cuscuta seed has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine for supporting both male and female fertility by tonifying kidney essence. It is commonly included in fertility formulations. Preliminary research suggests potential benefits through antioxidant compounds like quercetin and kaempferol, which may support reproductive health. However, clinical evidence remains limited (Level C). Individuals seeking fertility support should work with a qualified practitioner rather than self-prescribing.

What are the side effects of Cuscuta seed?

Reported side effects of Cuscuta seed include gastrointestinal upset and constipation. Traditional contraindications include Yin deficiency with fire and diarrhea caused by excess dampness. Individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions should exercise caution. Long-term safety data is limited. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur and consult a healthcare provider. Always source herbs from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and purity.

Fiche d'information compilée à partir de PubMed

Cette fiche a été compilée à partir de résumés PubMed (NIH) avec l'assistance d'une IA. Chaque affirmation factuelle est citée par un article PubMed réel (voir la liste des sources). Elle n'a pas encore été révisée par un humain — confirmez auprès d'un professionnel de santé avant utilisation.

Compilé à partir de 30 articles PubMed · modèle : gemma4:31b

Résumé

Cuscuta chinensis (Tu-Si-Zi) is a traditional medicinal herb used in several Asian countries for anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective purposes [PMID:25281912, PMID:35561084].

Contexte

Cuscuta chinensis Lam. is a plant in the Convolvulaceae family, predominantly distributed in China and other Asian countries, from which dried mature seeds are used as a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) [PMID:40154899, PMID:25281912].

Usages traditionnels

It is commonly used as an anti-aging agent, anti-inflammatory agent, pain reliever, and aphrodisiac [PMID:25281912]. It is also used to nourish the liver and kidney, and treat lumbago, tinnitus, and vitiligo [PMID:42275550].

Composés actifs

Phytochemicals include flavonoids (such as hyperoside, astragalin, and quercetin), phenolic acids, steroids, hydroquinones, volatile oils, lignans, polysaccharides, resin glycosides, and fatty acids [PMID:25281912, PMID:40349961, PMID:37920216, PMID:41827008].

Mécanisme d'action

Mechanisms include modulation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway for oxidative damage [PMID:41790377], inhibition of VCP-mediated METTL3 protein degradation for bone loss [PMID:42257759], regulation of monocyte polarization via the NF-κB/IκBα signaling cascade [PMID:40154899], and activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway for insulin resistance [PMID:39035690].

Preuves cliniques

Preuve CDiminished Ovarian Reserve (DOR)

TCM pairs including Cuscuta chinensis-Sambucus nigra can improve ovarian function [PMID:40620463]

Preuve DPostmenopausal Osteoporosis

Cuscuta chinensis Lam. extract alleviated bone loss in ovariectomy-induced mouse models [PMID:42257759, PMID:40154899]

Preuve DDiabetic Nephropathy

Hyperoside (found in C. chinensis) reduced diabetes-induced albuminuria and glomerular mesangial matrix expansion in mice [PMID:34925317]

Preuve DCognitive Impairment/Memory Deficit

Extracts improved scopolamine-induced memory deficits and reduced brain acetylcholinesterase activity in mice [PMID:30467292]

Preuve DSepsis-associated Encephalopathy (SAE)

Cuscuta chinensis flavonoids improved learning, memory, and blood-brain barrier integrity in animal models [PMID:38499156]

Preuve DMale Reproductive Injury (BPA-induced)

Synthèse des preuves

The evidence is primarily based on animal models (mice, rats, Drosophila, C. elegans) and in vitro studies (D), with some supporting systematic reviews (A) and general reviews (C) regarding its traditional use and chemical composition.

Sources PubMed

1.PMID: 40620463 (2025) — Advances in Traditional Chinese Medicine for Managing Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Mechanisms and Clinical Insights. · Drug design, development and therapy
2.PMID: 40349961 (2026) — Hyperoside modulates bile acid and fatty acid metabolism, presenting a potentially promising treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. · Journal of advanced research
3.PMID: 34925317 (2021) — Hyperoside Suppresses Renal Inflammation by Regulating Macrophage Polarization in Mice With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. · Frontiers in immunology
4.PMID: 38086513 (2024) — Neuroprotective effect of the traditional decoction Tian-Si-Yin against Alzheimer's disease via suppression of neuroinflammation. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
5.PMID: 37716490 (2024) — Guben Xiezhuo Decoction inhibits M1 polarization through the Raf1/p-Elk1 signaling axis to attenuate renal interstitial fibrosis.

Cuscuta Seed

Sources et citations

Calculer une dose sûre de Cuscuta Seed