Tú Sī Zǐ (菟丝子) — Dodder Seed (Cuscuta)
On this page
- Overview
- Properties
- Actions and indications
- Key formulas
- Modern research
- Cautions and contraindications
- Treatment at my clinic
1. Overview
Tú Sī Zǐ (菟丝子) — Cuscuta chinensis / australis — is known in English as Dodder seed / Chinese dodder. It belongs to the category of Yang tonics in the Chinese Materia Medica and is one of the most important and widely prescribed herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is used in Chinese herbal medicine both as a component of classical herbal formulas and as a significant individual herb in tailored prescriptions.
I prescribe Tú Sī Zǐ as part of bespoke herbal formulas from pharmaceutical-grade granules sourced from Sun Ten in Taiwan — independently tested to the highest international quality and safety standards. Herbs are never prescribed individually outside a properly balanced formula; they are always combined with other herbs selected to match the patient’s individual TCM pattern. Online consultations are available for patients who cannot attend my clinic in person.
2. Properties
| Pinyin name | Tú Sī Zǐ |
|---|---|
| Chinese characters | 菟丝子 |
| Latin name | Cuscuta chinensis / australis |
| English name | Dodder seed / Chinese dodder |
| Nature | Neutral (slightly warm) |
| Flavour | Sweet, acrid |
| Channels entered | Kidney, Liver, Spleen |
| Category | Yang tonics |
3. Actions and indications
Principal actions
- Tonifies Kidney Yang and nourishes Kidney Yin — a gentle tonic for both
- Nourishes Jing (Essence) and benefits the eyes
- Consolidates Jing and reduces urination
- Calms the foetus and prevents miscarriage
- Strengthens the Spleen and stops diarrhoea
Indications
- Kidney Yang deficiency with impotence, premature ejaculation, low back ache and cold limbs
- Infertility in both men and women — the premier herb for Kidney deficiency fertility patterns
- Luteal phase defect — supports the Yang rise needed to sustain the endometrium post-ovulation
- Threatened miscarriage and recurrent miscarriage from Kidney deficiency
- Blurred vision and dry eyes from Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency
- Urinary frequency and incontinence from Kidney deficiency
- Sperm quality — improves count, motility and DNA integrity
4. Key formulas containing Tú Sī Zǐ
Tú Sī Zǐ is an ingredient in many classical formulas. The following are among the most important:
- You Gui Wan
- Jin Gui Shen Qi Wan
- Zuo Gui Wan
- Wu Zi Yan Zong Wan
See the full Chinese herbal medicine formula directory for detailed information on all 70 classical formulas.
5. Modern research
Cuscuta chinensis (Tu Si Zi) is one of the most important fertility herbs in TCM and has been the subject of significant modern research. Key bioactive constituents include flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin), polysaccharides and lignans. Research demonstrates that Tu Si Zi improves sperm count, motility and morphology, reduces sperm DNA fragmentation through antioxidant mechanisms, protects granulosa cells from apoptosis (directly supporting follicular development), improves ovarian reserve markers and modulates the HPO axis. A systematic review confirmed its significant positive effects on multiple fertility parameters. Animal studies show it prevents embryo resorption, consistent with its traditional use in preventing miscarriage.
6. Cautions and contraindications
Generally well tolerated and considered one of the gentler Kidney tonics. Use with caution in patients with Yin deficiency with strong Empty Heat, as its warming nature may aggravate the condition. Avoid in patients with excess patterns — constipation and difficult urination from Heat.
Important: Chinese herbs should always be prescribed by a fully qualified herbalist who is a member of the Register of Chinese Herbal Medicine (RCHM). Never self-prescribe or self-administer Chinese herbs without professional guidance. Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a member of the RCHM and the British Acupuncture Council with over 25 years of clinical experience.
7. Treatment at my clinic
I prescribe Tú Sī Zǐ as part of tailored herbal formulas for a range of conditions including Luteal phase defect, Miscarriage, Sperm DNA fragmentation, Low AMH level, Male infertility. Every prescription is individually formulated following a full TCM assessment and adjusted throughout treatment as the pattern responds.
I see patients in person at my clinic in Wokingham, Berkshire. Online Chinese herbal medicine consultations are available for patients throughout the UK and internationally, with herbs dispensed by post. Visit the prices page for consultation fees.
Return to the Chinese herb directory or the Chinese herbal medicine main page.
