Tu Si Zi (Semen Cuscutae) is from the ripe seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam., family Convolvulaceae. The fruits are collected in the autumn when ripe. The fruit is dried in the sun and the seeds are then threshed from the fruit, before any impurities are removed. They are used unprocessed or after being roasted with a salt solution.
Category: Tonifying – Yang Tonifying.
Common Name: Chinese Dodder Seeds; Cuscuta.
Channels Entered: Liver and Kidney.
Properties and Functions: Tu Si Zi is sweet in flavour and warm in nature. Its main functions are:
- Invigorating the Kidney, tonifying Yang, augmenting the Yin to secure the essence.
- Tonfiying the Liver and Kidney to improve eyesight.
- Benefits the Spleen and Kidney and stops diarrhoea.
- Calms the foetus.
Indications: Clinical applications for this herb include:
- Kidney deficiency manifesting as lumbago, impotence, seminal emission, enuresis or leukorrhagia.
- Insufficiency of Liver and Kidney with malnutrition of the eyes manifesting as blurred vision and weak eyesight.
- Diarrhoea due to Spleen and Kidney deficiency.
- Insufficiency of Liver and Kidney leading to possible miscarriage and restless foetus.
Dosage: 6 – 12g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: Contra-indicated in cases of Fire from Yin deficiency and of constipation with scanty, dark urine.