Does Cuscuta (Tu Si Zi) cause heatiness?
Apr 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Cuscuta (Tu Si Zi) is a mild tonic with warm properties. When used appropriately and strictly according to medical advice, it generally does not cause internal heat ("fire") in the body, and can effectively improve vision, stop bleeding, tonify yang and nourish yin, as well as consolidate essence and reduce urination. However, if the dosage is increased blindly without following medical guidance, it may lead to an imbalance of yin and yang, resulting in symptoms of internal heat such as sore throat, painful or dark-colored short urination, and mouth or tongue ulcers.
Whether dodder seed (Tusizi) causes "heatiness" generally depends on the amount consumed. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Does not cause heatiness
Dodder seed is a medicinal herb classified as a mild tonic with warm properties. When used appropriately and in accordance with medical advice, it usually does not cause internal heat. It commonly exerts beneficial effects such as improving vision, stopping bleeding, tonifying yang and nourishing yin, consolidating essence, and reducing frequent urination.
2. May cause heatiness
If dodder seed is used without following medical guidance and the dosage is excessively increased, it may disrupt the body's yin-yang balance, leading to symptoms of heatiness, such as sore and swollen throat, dark and scanty urine, and mouth or tongue ulcers.
After using dodder seed, if symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, or excessive sexual arousal occur, discontinue use immediately and monitor the condition. If symptoms are severe, prompt medical attention is recommended.
