Can Cuscuta seeds be steeped in water for consumption?
Apr 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, Cuscuta seeds can be consumed as an herbal tea, but it is important to drink them in moderation. Cuscuta is a commonly used traditional Chinese herb with a pungent and sweet taste, and a neutral property. It acts on the liver, kidney, and spleen meridians, offering various medicinal benefits. When steeped in water, the active components of Cuscuta can dissolve into the water, and through consumption, exert corresponding pharmacological effects within the body.
Generally speaking, Cuscuta seeds can be consumed as an herbal infusion, but it is important to drink them in moderation. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Cuscuta seeds are a common traditional Chinese medicine. They have a pungent and sweet taste and are neutral in nature, acting on the liver, kidney, and spleen meridians. They possess various medicinal properties. When used to make an infusion, the active components of Cuscuta seeds dissolve into the water and exert corresponding pharmacological effects upon consumption. Cuscuta seeds act on the liver and kidney meridians, offering nourishment to these organs. They are frequently used to treat symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, blurred vision, and tinnitus caused by liver and kidney deficiency. Cuscuta seeds also have the effect of consolidating essence and reducing urinary frequency, making them useful for treating conditions like spermatorrhea and bedwetting caused by kidney deficiency.
Cuscuta seeds can help maintain a healthy pregnancy and provide certain benefits for pregnant women. Additionally, they improve vision and offer some protective effects for the eyes. The polysaccharide components in Cuscuta seeds have immunomodulatory effects, capable of enhancing the body's immunity and strengthening resistance. The antioxidants in Cuscuta seeds can remove free radicals, reduce oxidative stress-induced damage to the body, and provide certain anti-aging effects.
Although drinking Cuscuta seed infusion offers certain benefits, it cannot replace medical treatment. Usage should follow the principle of moderation, avoiding excessive consumption. Cuscuta seeds tend to be warm in nature and are not recommended for individuals with yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, excessive yang symptoms, or constipation. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with weak constitutions should use them under the guidance of a physician. Individual body constitutions vary, and responses to herbs may differ. If discomfort occurs after consumption, discontinue use immediately and consult a qualified healthcare professional promptly.
