Can Cuscuta seeds be steeped in water for consumption?
Apr 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
In general, Cuscuta seeds can be steeped in water for consumption, but should be used in moderation. Cuscuta enters the liver and kidney meridians and can nourish the liver and kidneys. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus caused by insufficiency of the liver and kidneys. Cuscuta also has the effect of consolidating essence and reducing urinary frequency, and can be used to treat conditions such as spermatorrhea and enuresis caused by kidney deficiency.
Generally speaking, Cuscuta seeds can be consumed as herbal tea, but it is important to use them in moderation. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Cuscuta seeds act on the liver and kidney meridians and can nourish the liver and kidneys. They are commonly used to treat symptoms caused by liver and kidney deficiency, such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, and more. Cuscuta seeds have the effect of consolidating essence and reducing urinary frequency, making them suitable for treating conditions such as seminal emission and enuresis caused by kidney deficiency. They can also stabilize pregnancy and provide certain benefits for pregnant women. Additionally, they help improve vision and offer some protective effects for the eyes. The polysaccharide components in Cuscuta seeds have immunomodulatory effects and can enhance the body's immunity and resistance.
However, it is important to consume them in moderation to avoid discomfort caused by excessive intake. Cuscuta seeds have a slightly warm nature and are not recommended for individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, excessive yang with persistent erection, or constipation due to dry stool. People with yin deficiency and excessive heat already suffer from insufficient body fluids and internal generation of deficient heat. Consuming warm-natured Cuscuta seeds may worsen the symptoms of yin deficiency.
Cuscuta seeds are classified as traditional Chinese medicine and should be used under the guidance of a physician to avoid adjusting the dosage without authorization. Pregnant women, lactating mothers, children, and individuals with weak constitutions should use them with particular caution. Additionally, it is important to monitor the body’s response, and if any discomfort occurs, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice. In daily life, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, balanced nutrition, and moderate exercise can help improve overall health.
