Cuscuta chinensis.Dodder.Dodder seed extract Pharmacological Actions.

  seminal trace...Cuscuta chinensis.Dodder.Dodder seed extract.Dodder Seed Extract.5:1.Cuscuta chinensis.Main Content:Kaempferol,C15H10O6;Quercetin,C15H10O7;Astragalin,C21H20O11....

 


   Botanical Basic Data of Cuscuta chinensis(Dodder):devil's-guts,goldthread

 Botanical Source:Cuscuta chinensis(The ripe seed of Cuscuta chinensis Lam.,an annual voluble parasitic herb of the family Convolvulaceae).
 Latin Name: Semen Cuscutae
 Family: Convolvulaceae.
 Common Name: Cuscuta seed, Chinese Dodder seed,Huang Si,Huang Teng Zi,Dou Ji Sheng.Huang Shan Teng.Wu Gen Cao,Wu Niang Teng,Huang Shan Si,Lao Ya Si,Huang Si Teng.
 Scientific Name: Cuscuta chinensis Lam
 Pin Yin Name: Tu Si Zi
 Cuscuta Classification in China:(1).Cuscuta chinensis Lam.;(2).Cuscuta australis R.Br.;(3).Cuscuta campestris Yunker;
 Pinyin Name: Tu si zi,Also called Chinese Dodder Seed.
 Pin yin description:tu is a character for this herb derived from the character meaning rabbit; si means silk, and zi means seeds, the part used; this plant is a parasitic weed that sets up a mat of hair-like fibers at its base and then rapidly sends fibrous stems upward; thus Tu Si refers to the quality of these fibers like silky rabbit hair; a common name for dodders in the West, based on the undesirable weed-like nature of these plants, is Devil's Hair.
 Part use:Dodder seed,Aerial parts.(whole plants are harvested in autumn when the seeds are ripe, and then threshed after dried to get the seeds)
 Synoms:Dodder,love vine,strangleweed,devil's-guts,goldthread,pull-down,devil's-ringlet,hellbine,hairweed,devil's-hair,Beggarweed, Cuscutae, Devil's Guts, Dodder Of Thyme, Hellweed,Lesser Dodder,Scaldweed,Strangle Tare,Tu Si Zi,Tu Sizi,Cuscuta epithymum,Cuscuta chinensis and hailweed.
 
 Habitat:Dodder grows throughout Europe, Asia, and southern Africa. Dodder prefers coastal and mountainous regions, and is gathered in summer.In China,mainly distributed in Jiangsu,Liaoning, Jilin, Hebei, Shandong and Henan provinces of China.
 Taste:Pungent, Sweet,It is sweet in taste, warm in nature and manifests its therapeutic actions in the liver, kidney and spleen meridians.
 Constitutents:Dodder contains flavonoids (including kaempferol and quercitin) and hydroxycinnamic acid.
 Cuscuta , or Dodder plant, is a parasitic vine that wraps around other plants for nourishment.The ripe seed of Cuscuta chinensis Lam.; an annual voluble parasitic herb of the family Convolvulaceae.Cuscuta seed is used in China for kidney deficiency. Cuscuta has a high content of flavonoids and has strong antioxidant properties. Cuscuta seed has been found in studies to have positive effects on sperm health and motility, and invigorates the reproductive system.
 The plant growns near seashores.Slim stems spread out,twist and yellow color,no leaf.flower blossom fascination on axil.flower bud and small bud squama shape,caylx shape cup,5 divide,white crown,bell shape,double length of calyx.The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).Stamen flower flat short,squama grow on base,shape square roundness,2 room germen. Capsule shape flat ball.Seed 2~4,florescence July to September,fruit august to october. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade and requires moist soil.
 Dodder is distributed in most parts of China. It is collected in autumn when the seed is ripe, dried in the sun and used unprepared or boiled after removal of impurities.
 


 Botanical Basic Data of Cuscuta chinensis(Dodder).
 Archeology of Dodder.
 Description of Cuscuta chinensis(Dodder).
 Constituents and Phytochemicals of Dodder Seed.
 Historical Use of Dodder Seed:.
 Pharmacological Actions of Dodder Seed:
 Dodder Seed extracts as male sexual enhancement material.
 Dodder plant extracts as good cancer inhibitor.
 Tinnitus Relief Formula Material.
 Polysaccharide of Cuscuta Chinesis and its Immunological Adjuvant Effect.
 Vision Formular for Cataract and Glaucoma and Dodder Seed Combination.
 Administration and Dosage:
 Adverse Effect, Side Effects and Cautions,Toxity:
 Research Update:Dodder Seed
 


   Archeology of Dodder.:

  Origin:
 This herb is the ripe seed of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. or Cuscuta japonica Choisy, annual parasitic herb of the family Convolvulaceae. Native to east Asia, the plant is grown in China,Korea and India.

 Dodder has always been an unpopular country plant. Dodder is also known as hellweed and devil's guts, due to its tendency to overrun and strangle the plant on which it feeds. This host can be thyme, gorse, or a crop such as beans. Dodder does, however, have medicinal benefits. In his Materia Medica, Dioscorides (1st century AD) noted its use in classical times in combination with honey to purge "black bile" and to lift a melancholy humor. In 1652, the herbalist Nicholas Culpeper similarly recommended dodder "to purge black or burnt choler." Culpeper further stated that dodder plucked off thyme is the most efficacious; making the interesting point that the parasite's medicinal benefits are determined in part by its host.
 Source of Earliest Record:Shennong Bencao Jing
 

  Properties and Functions:
 Properties:Sweet in flavor, warm in nature, it is related to the liver, kidney and spleen channels.
 Functions:Tonifys the kidney, preserves essence, nourishes the liver to improve vision and relieves diarrhea.
 Being sweet, warm and moist in property, it functions in tonifying both kidney-yang and -yin, nourishing the liver and improving vision. As a tonic, it is not sticky and often serves to treat syndromes of deficiency of the kidney and hypopsia due to deficiency of both liver-and kidney-yin. In addition, it also functions in warming the spleen and arresting diarrhea, serving to treat chronic diarrhea due to spleen-deficiency.


   Description of Cuscuta chinensis(Dodder):

 Dodder - a leafless parasitic vine that attaches its reddish-orange threadlike stems to green plants by means of suckers to draw out nourishment. Pinkish-white flowers (July-September) have five sharp, spreading, triangular lobes and grow in dense clusters. The seeds may remain dormant for up to eight years. Dodder is a nuisance to farmers growing alfalfa and clover.
 Dodder (Cuscuta and Grammica), is a twining yellow or orange plant sometimes tinged with purple or red. Occasionally it is almost white. The stems can be very thin and thread-like or relatively stout (a species characteristic).
 

 Dodder is classified as a member of the Morning-Glory Family (Convolvulaceae) in older references, and as a member of the Dodder Family (Cuscutaceae) in the more recent publications. Welsh et al. reports twelve species of Cuscuta in Utah while Weber (1986) separates this family into two genera with one species in Cuscuta and five species in the genus Grammica. Weber's separation is based on the shape of the stigma.

 Dodder parasitizes various kinds of wild and cultivated plants, and is especially destructive to alfalfa, lespedeza, flax, clover and potatoes. Ornamentals attacked included chrysanthemum, dahlia, helenium, Virginia-creeper, trumpet-vine, English ivy and petunias. Dodder is particularly troublesome where alfalfa, clover and onion are grown for seed because dodder seed is difficult to remove from the desired seed crop and can be spread with infested seed. Its water, minerals and carbohydrates are absorbed from the host through haustoria that penetrate the host's tissue. In dodder the haustoria are modified adventitious roots.
 
 Dodder is said (Wilson, et al.) to contain some chlorophyll in the buds, fruits and stems, but the amount of food manufactured in this tissue is of little significance to the survival of the plant.
 The flowers are numerous, white, pink or yellowish, small (2 to 4 mm long depending on species), and can be borne in tight balls or in a loose cluster (again depending on species). Flowers normally appear from early June to the end of the growing season. The fruit is about 1/8 th inch in diameter, with thin papery walls and contain 1 to 4 seeds. The seeds are yellow to brown or black, nearly round and have a fine rough surface with one round and two flat sides.
 Dodder produces seed that drops to the ground and germinate the next growing season if a suitable host is present. If no suitable host is present, the seed may remain dormant for five years.
 Dodder seedlings must attach to a suitable host within a few days of germinating or they die. The young seedling is sensitive to touch and yellowish stem gropes in the air until it makes contact with a plant. The contact is made firm by one or more coils about the stem. If this plant happens to contain foods suitable to the dodder then a secondary stimulus is aroused which causes root-like branches (haustoria) to form and penetrate the stem. The basal part of the parasite soon shrivels away so that no soil connection exists.
 

  Brief life of Dodder:

 Dodder seeding autumn yearly, seed easy pass winter and shoot out from the end of next spring. Young plant grow its line shape in soft earth, seeding grow and depend on the nutrition stored in seed,then helix shape stem grow out. Sensitive of stem cells, at this period of end spring summer begin,many kinds of plant grow mature,flourish plant around make dodder easy find its parasitic host,. Once connected with host,hold on stem of host and begin its parasitic life, root in earth begin to perish.

  Difference between Chinese Dodder and Cuscuta europaea Linn:

 Dodder seed is parasitic herb,seed used as medicine,main for tonify liver and kidney,boost sperm and light eyes. Main for treatment of waist knee sour soft,erection dysfunction,frequent urine, swirl and swimming,slip eyesight,foreboding abortion,lower blood pressure. Chinese Dodder parasite to host plant covered herbage plant 23 Convolvulaceae families 74 kinds,wood herb 3 families 3 kinds.Cuscuta europaea Linn. parasite to host plant herbage 6 kinds.Cuscuta monogyna Vahl parasite to host plant herbage 10 kinds, wood 13 kinds.
 

  Difference between Dodder Seed and Big Grain Dodder Seed:

 1.Dodder Seed:  shape ball or egg,sunken at both sides,long diameter 1.5 mm length,short diameter 1mm around.Drak brown to red brown appearance,light coarseness. Look by magnifying glass,dark dot title close apread on surface,light round dot one side,line shape hila in the middle.Hard and not easy to crash, stave but not broken once pressed. shuck off seed capsule,albumen membrane cover shape,embryo slightness convolute,smellless,taste light sour bitter.
 2.Big Grain Dodder Seed:  shape similar as above,but bigger,long diameter about 3 mm,short diameter about 2~3 mm.Look by magnifying glass, short line shaped dapple on surface. shuck off seed capsule,embryo cover shape,waterlogging make glue. smellless,taste light sour.
 


   Constituents and Phytochemicals of Dodder Seed.:

  Main Content and Phytochemicals:  kaempferol (C15H10O6),(0.198%); quercetin (C15H10O7),(0.119~0.204%); astragalin (C21H20O11),etc.

  Nutritions:  Chemical constituents in Semen Cuscutae include biological alkaloids, anthraquinone, coumarin, flavones, glycoside sterols, terpene, tannic acid and others. Compounds that contain flavones include quercetin, astragalin, and hyperin, with the total flavone amount being approximately 3.0% in the raw herb. Compounds that include sterols include: cholesterol, campesterol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol and beta-amyrin.The amino acid content is approximately 0.076%, and the total polysaccharide content is 8.5%-9.2% in the raw herb.Microelements identified so far in this herb are calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu).
 

  Other Phytochemicals: neosesamin; kaempferol-3-O-Beta-D-glucopyranoside; palmitic acid; stearic acid; daucosterol; cuscutic acid A1; cuscutic acid A2;cuscutic acid A3 (cuscutic acids A1,A2,A3); hyperoside; quercetin-3-O-beta-galactoside-7-O-beta-gluoside; campesterol; beta-sitosterol; stigmasterol; beta-carotene;beta-amyrin; lutein; taraxanthin;etc.
   The active constituents in Dodder seed are thought to be a group of flavonoids.The seed is rich in quercetin and also contains cuscutin, astragalin, vitamin A, hyperosides and sterols.
   Chemical constituents in Semen Cuscutae include biological alkaloids, anthraquinone, coumarin, flavones, glycoside sterols, terpene, tannic acid and others. Compounds that contain flavones include quercetin, astragalin, and hyperin, with the total flavone amount being approximately 3.0% in the raw herb. Compounds that include sterols include: cholesterol, campesterol, beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol and beta-amyrin. The amino acid content is approximately 0.076%, and the total polysaccharide content is 8.5%-9.2% in the raw herb 4,6. Microelements identified so far in this herb are calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu).
 

 Quantitative analysis of Semen cuscutae:the quantitative analysis of the total flavone in 7 species revealed the contents: Cuscuta Chinensis (3.0%), Cuscuta Australis (3.2%) as compared with Cuscuta Europaea (4.5%). Cuscuta Chinensis has the highest content of polysaccharide of about 5-6%. The experimental results provide a scientific basis the rational use of Cuscuta .
 Recent Study the chemical constituents of the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis,Method: Separation was carried out by polyamide and silica gel chromatography,the compounds were identified by means of physico-chemical and spectroscopic methods. Results: Eight compounds were isolated from the plant and identified as quercetin 3-O-beta-D-galactoside-7-O-beta-D-glucoside (I), quercetin 3-O-beta-D-apiofuranosyl-(1-->2)-beta-D-galactoside (II), hyperoside (III), isorhamnetin (IV), kaempferol (V), quercetin (VI), d-sesamin (VII) and 9(R)-hydroxy-d-sesamin (VIII). Conclusion: Compounds IV and VII were isolated from Cuscuta for the first time, and I, II and VIII were characteristic constituents for this vegetable drug.
 Chemical characterization and immunological activities of an acidic polysaccharide isolated from the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam:
 


   Historical Use of Dodder Seed:

 The Chinese name of Tusizi is actually comprised of three Chinese words. The first word "Tu" (ÝË) incorporates the word "rabbit" (ÍÃ)below the character for "herb"(). The second word "Si" (½z) means "filament,"and the third word "Zi" (×Ó) refers to "seed". During the Ming Dynasty, Li Shizhen wrote in the Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) "Below the herb Tusizi, there lies the root of a 'hidden rabbit'. Without that root, its filament does not grow. If the 'hidden rabbit' is withdrawn, the filament herb will die... As the young root of the herb looks like a 'rabbit', it is given the name of 'rabbit filament' (Tusi)."
 The main effect of Tusizi is to replenish the kidney essence or "jing" in order to support healthy sexual and reproductive functioning. Through the mother-son relationship between kidney and liver, it also benefits the eyes, tendons and other physiological functions related to the kidneys and liver.


 The uses of this herb date back to the Bencao Gangmu which described its functions as "invigorating deficiencies, benefiting qi (vital energy) and strengthening and promoting health." It goes on to say: "Taken appropriately on a long term basis, it benefits the eyes, keeps the individual fit and prevents aging ... Due to its nourishment of the muscles and yin, and reinforcement of the tendons and bone, it is mainly used to treat excessive coldness in male genital organs, involuntary discharge of semen, dribbling during urination, a bitter taste in the mouth accompanied by a dry and thirsty feeling and to treat an accumulation of cold blood."

 The uses of this herb date back to the Bencao Gangmu which described its functions as "invigorating deficiencies, benefiting qi (vital energy) and strengthening and promoting health.It goes on to say: "Taken appropriately on a long term basis, it benefits the eyes, keeps the individual fit and prevents aging ... "Due to its nourishment of the muscles and yin, and reinforcement of the tendons and bone, it is mainly used to treat excessive coldness in male genital organs, involuntary discharge of semen, dribbling during urination, a bitter taste in the mouth accompanied by a dry and thirsty feeling and to treat an accumulation of cold blood.

 Li Shi Zhen thought the herb worked by "obtaining and gathering together the harmonized and normal yang qi. The single stem coming out from the whole plant is formed by "sensing" the qi of the branch. Hence, it tends to invigorate defensive qi and support an individual's tendons and vessels." In Chinese medicine, the liver governs the tendons and vessels. The liver, being a wood organ, needs a mother, which contains a water element. This water element is represented by the kidneys whose main function is to store essence or "jing." This essence is what gives the tendons and vessels their nourishment. Therefore, it is said that the kidneys and liver share a mother-son relationship.


  What is It Used for in TCM?
 

 Today, Semen Cuscutae is used in Chinese medicine to invigorate the kidneys and consolidate kidney essence (jing), nourish the liver, improve eyesight, arrest diarrhea and soothe an unborn fetus.
 1. It is used in syndromes caused by a kidney deficiency that exhibit symptoms such as lower back pain, erectile dysfunction, involuntary discharge of semen, urinary frequency and leucorrhea.
 2. It is used for symptom treatment of blurred and dark vision and decreased visual acuity, which are caused by insufficient nourishment of the eyes due to liver and kidney deficiencies.
 3. It treats diarrhea problems caused by spleen and kidney deficiencies.
 4. It is used for cases of abnormal fetal movement caused by liver and kidney deficiencies.
 5. It can also be used in increased thirst symptoms caused by a kidney deficiency.
 


 Despite the fact that cuscuta is unpopular with farmers, it has a long history of folk use. In Western herbalism, cuscuta was traditionally used to treat liver, spleen, and gallbladder disorders such as jaundice ; and to support liver function. It is still used, although rarely, in that way by modern herbalists. It is also a mild laxative. Other traditional Western claims for cuscuta are that it is a mild diuretic, and that it can be used to treat sciatica and scurvy. Externally, it can be gathered fresh and applied to the skin to treat scrofuladerma. Extracts of the herb have a very bitter taste.
 In traditional Chinese medicine, the seeds of cuscuta, called tu si zi, have been used for thousands of years. In the Chinese understanding of health, yin aspects inside the person and outside in the environment must be kept in balance with yang aspects. Ill health occurs when the energies and elements of the body are out of balance or in disharmony with nature. Health is restored by taking herbs and treatments that restore internal and external balance.
 According to traditional Chinese healers, cuscuta seeds have a neutral nature and a pungent, sweet taste. They are associated with the liver and kidneys and are used in formulas that help both yin and yang deficiencies, depending on the patient's condition and the other herbs in the formula. Cuscuta was considered both an aphrodisiac and a longevity herb because it slowed down the loss of fluids from the body.

 Contemporary Chinese herbalists use cuscuta in formulas to treat a range of conditions, including:

 impotence;premature ejaculation;sperm leakage;frequent urination;ringing in the ears;lower back pain;sore knees;white discharge from the vagina (leucorrhea);dry eyes;blurred vision;tired eyes

 Cuscuta is one of nine herbs included in the manufacture of Equiguard, a Chinese herbal medicine recommended for kidney and prostate disorders. Research performed at New York Medical College indicates that the combination of ingredients in Equiguard may well be effective in the treatment of prostate cancer. The preparation inhibited the growth of cancer cells, increased the rate of self-destruction (apoptosis) of cancer cells, and prevented the surviving cells from forming colonies.
 Cuscuta is also used in the Indian system of Ayurvedic healing to treat jaundice, muscle pain, coughs, and problems with urination.
 Little scientific research has been done in the West on cuscuta. A purgative compound has been isolated from the herb, however, that supports its traditional use as a liver and gallbladder tonic. Other research done at Asian universities indicates that cuscuta seeds contain a complex carbohydrate that stimulates the immune system and has some antioxidant properties as well.

 

   Pharmacological Actions of Dodder Seed:

  1. Chronic Prostatitis:
 Clinical studies:A formula of Semen Cuscutae,Rhizoma Dioscoreae Hypoglaucae,Rhizoma Dioscoreae,Fructus Alpiniae Oxyphyllae,Rhizoma Alismatis,Fructus Corni,and Herba Patriniae was used once per day to treat 53 cases of chronic prostatitis, for periods ranging from one to three months. The overall effective rate was reported to be 90.6%.

  2. Improve Sperm Abnormality:
 Clinical studies:Semen Cuscutae was used together with Herba Cistanches, Fructus Lycii, Radix Polgoni Multiflori, Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata and Fructus Schisandrae to treat 105 cases of sperm abnormality. In this review paper, the type of sperm abnormality was not defined. The patients took the medicine either once a day or every other day. One month was regarded as one treatment period. After three treatment periods, 31 cases demonstrated complete recovery, 65 cases showed some extent of recovery while 11 cases experienced no change.

  3. Gynecological Effects:
 Clinical studies,Effective in treating threatened abortion: Radix Dipsaci, Colla Corii Asini, Radix Codonopsis Pilosulae, Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae and Semen Cuscutae were used to treat 110 cases of threatened abortion. The patients took the medicine once a day for 10 days, and the overall effective rate was found to be 96.36%.

  4. Improve Chranic Bronchits:
 Clinical studies,Effective in treating threatened abortion: Radix Dipsaci, Colla Corii Asini, Radix Codonopsis Pilosulae, Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae and Semen Cuscutae were used to treat 110 cases of threatened abortion. The patients took the medicine once a day for 10 days, and the overall effective rate was found to be 96.36%.
 Effects on small uteruses (lnfantile uterus). In a study of 46 cases of infantile uteruses, patients were treated with a compound formula containing Semen Cuscutae , Radix Morindae Officinalis, Rhizoma Curculiginis, Herba Epimedii, Cervus elaphus, Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata and Radix Polgoni Multiflori. Starting from the 5th day of the menstrual cycle, the medication was taken, together with 1mg diethylstilbestrol, once a day for 20 days. Following treatment, 37 cases showed complete recovery while nine cases demonstrated improvement.
 Animal studies:Gavage feeding 25g/kg Semen Cuscutae water extract to mice once a day for ten days was able to promote keratinization of vaginal tract epithelium and increase the weight of the uterus.
 

  5. Delay Cataract Formation:Counteracting cataract
 Animal studies,Delay cataract formation in rats:Rats on a galactose diet were given by gavage 4g/kg/day of a Semen Cuscutae water extract for 30 consecutive days. Results showed that Semen Cuscutae could delay the formation of cataracts in rats with a reported overall effective rate of 33.3%14. It was suggested that Semen Cuscutae did this by reducing the activity of aldose reductase and other enzymes that are responsible for galactose induced cataract formation and by enhancing the activities of sorbitol dehydrogenase, hexokinase, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in the rat eye lens.
 In cataract lens, the activity of aldose reductase is significantly heightened, while the activities of polybasic alcohol dehydrogenase, hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and catalase are significantly lowered. If, however, Tu Si Zi decoction is administered at the same time as galactose is injected, the increase in the activity of aldose reductase can be checked, and the activities of the other four enzymes returned to within the normal range


  6. Yang Strengthening Effects:
 Animal studies:Improve the overall wellness of yang deficient mice:
 After mice were rendered yang deficient by hydrocorticoid treatment, mice were gavage fed with a 5g/kg Semen Cuscutae decoction once a day for 7 days. It was observed that their body, kidney and thymus gland weight increased as well as increasing their white cell count, red cell count, hemoglobin content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Male mice gavage fed with 5g/kg Semen Cuscutae decoction once a day for 10 consecutive days showed prolonged swimming and hypoxia survival times. When fruit flies were fed with 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0% Semen Cuscutae water extracts for 10 days, their copulation frequency, within 11 minutes, increased. Their copulation rate increased by 47.49%, 65.52% and 78.86%, respectively.

  7. Effects on Na+/K+-ATPase activity:Protecting brain tissues
 Animal studies:Mice gavage fed with a 6g/kg Semen Cuscutae decoction once a day for 10 days showed increase in Na+/K+-ATPase activity.
 Fed to rats, Wu Tu Granules (a formula of which Tu Si Zi is the main ingredient) can increase the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), and lower the level of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) in the subjects¡¯ brain tissues. Taken as a preventive measure, the formula can reduce the release of cerebral exitatory amino acids in rats. Administered to mice, the formula is shown to enhance the subjects' memory.

  8. Effect on Heart Rate and Blood Pressure:
 Animal studies:Modulate heart rate and blood pressure: Decoction and tincture preparations of Semen Cuscutae were shown to affect contractility in an in vitro toad heart model. Heart rate was shown to increase with the decoction preparation but was reduced with the tincture. Intravenous injection of a 0.1g/kg Semen Cuscutae decoction to anaesthetized dogs showed reduction in their blood pressure.

  9. Effects on the Endocrine System:
 Animal studies
 Modulate the function of the anterior pituitary-hypothalamus-ovary axis:
 When female rats were fed by gavage with 10g/kg water extract of Semen Cuscutae twice a day for five consecutive days, the weights of their anterior pituitary glands, ovaries and uterus were increased. Although no change in plasma LH levels was noted, the numbers of hCG/LH receptors increased such that the Ka value was smaller when compared to the control group.
 Increase LRH sensitivity in ovariectomized rats: Ovariectomized rats were fed by gavage with 10g/kg water extract of Semen Cuscutae twice a day for five days. On day six, following anesthesia, the animals were i.v. injected with d-C-LRH (luteinizing releasing hormone). Results showed that Semen Cuscutae was able to further promote luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion induced by LRH. Plasma LH levels of Semen Cuscutae treated rats reached its highest peak 90 minutes after d-C-LRH injection with an average percentage increase of 241.58%. This study demonstrated that the stimulatory effects of Semen Cuscutae on yellow body (corus luteum) production along the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis were not due to its direct stimulation on the pituitary; but thought to be due to Semen Cuscutae's ability to increase ovary receptor sites sensitive towards LRH and LH, respectively.

  10. Anti-aging Effects:
 Animal studies:Mulberry leaves, soaked with a 20% Semen Cuscutae decoction, were fed to silkworms three times a day. Results showed that Semen Cuscutae could prolong the larval stage of the worms, as well as their lifespan.
 Administered to senile mice, Tu Si Zi can increase the activity of superoxide dismutase in the subjects' erythrocyte membrane, decrease the level of lipid peroxides in the serum and the level of cerebral lipofuscin, and decrease the activity of monoamine oxidase B in the liver.


  11. Anti-cancer Effects:
 Cell culture studies:At concentrations of 300mg/ml and 3000mg/ml, Semen Cuscutae water extracts were able to inhibit DNA synthesis in Ehrlich ascite carcinoma cells.

  12. Anti-bacterial Effects :
 Cell culture studies:Decoction of Semen Cuscutae has been shown to have in vitro inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus, Shigella flexneri, and Bacillus typhosus.

  13.Deficient kidneys:
 Deficient kidneys manifested as impotence, nocturnal emissions, premature ejaculation, lower back pain or leukorrhagia. Dadder seed (Tusizi) is used with Eucommia bark (Duzhong), Dioscorea (Shanyao) and Cibot rhizome (Gouji) for lower back pain or leukorrhagia; Dadder seed (Tusizi) is used with Schisandra fruit (Wuweizi), Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi), Flattened milkvetch seed (Shayuanzi) and Grossy privet fruit (Nuzhenzi) for impotence.
 

  14.Anti-aging herb:
 Dodder seed will build Essence and thus it is considered to be an anti-aging herb. It is used to build sperm, increase fertility in both men and women and is listed as an aphrodisiac in all traditional Chinese pharmacopoeias.

  15.Gentle tonic for the kidney Yin and Yang:
 Dodder seed is commonly used in long-term tonic programs. It is a gentle tonic for the kidney Yin and Yang, and also helps nourish Qi. It helps the kidney to consolidate the Qi. It is widely used to improve vision, nourish the sperm and marrow, strengthen bones and sinews and to strengthen sexual functions.
 Dodder seed is commonly used in tonic formulations designed to benefit Yin and Yang Essence. It is most commonly used to strengthen the uro-genital functions. It is used to treat impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, and leukorrhea as well as ear ringing and aching lower back, symptoms thay often accompany deficient kidney conditions that cause sexual weakness.
 Dodder seed gently but efficiently helps tonify both Yin and Yang, therefore it is a very useful, safe and important herb. People suffering from kidney Yin deficiency will tend to experience symptoms of dizziness, blurred vision, spots in front of the eyes and ringing in the ears. Habitual consumption of Dodder seed can improve vision and clear away these symptoms.
 Dodder seed will build Yin Essence and thus it is considered to be an anti-aging herb. It is used to build sperm, increase fertility in both men and women and is listed as an aphrodisiac in all traditional Chinese pharmacopoeias.Dodder seed will be used with either Yin or Yang tonic herbs depending on the specifics of the person's condition. Dodder seed helps consolidate the Essence and thus slows down aging and prevents loss of bodily fluids. This type of herb is critical in any program designed to rejuvenate the body and to prolong life.
 


  16.Medicinal virtues:
 it is most effectual for melancholy diseases and to purge black or burnt choler, which is the cause of many diseases of the head and brain, as well as for the trembling of the heart, Paintings and swoonings.
 It is helpful in all diseases and griefs of the spleen and the melancholy that arises from the windiness of the hypochondrium. It purgeth also the reins or kidneys by urine. It openeth obstructions of the gall and profiteth them that have jaundice. Dodders found growing upon Nettles bath by experience been found very effectual to procure plenty of urine, where it hath been stopped or hindered.
 All the diseases that Saturn causes Dodder helps by sympathy, and strengthens the parts that Saturn rules.

  17.Modern uses:
 Dodder is a laxative and a liver tonic. It can he used for jaundice and sciatica. The whole plant is very bitter to the taste and an infusion acts as a purge. It is better to add a little ginger and pimento to the infusion of the stems. This acts as a tonic when the kidneys, spleen or liver are affected by any condition. Half an ounce ( 14 g) of the dried plant is boiled in 1 pt (568 rnl) of water, strained and taken in doses of 1 fl oz (28 rnl). The dose of the fluid extract when available is 3o drops. This remedy should not be taken in pregnancy and, because of its purging properties, should he taken only on the advice of a medical herbalist.
 The seed is aphrodisiac (arouse sexual desire), demulcent (soothing), diaphoretic, hepatic and tonic. It is decocted and used with other herbs to treat a variety of ailments. In particular, it is used in the treatment of impotence, nocturnal emissions, vertigo, lumbago, leukorrhoea, frequent urination, decreased eyesight, threatened abortion and chronic diarrhoea.
 

  18.For insufficiency of kidney-qi:
 For insufficiency of kidney-qi, debility of the lower-jiao manifested as soreness in the loins and knees, vertigo, tinnitus, spermatorrhea, frequent micturation, impotence and premature ejaculation, it is often used with herbs for tonifying the kidney and preserving essence, such as Cornu Cervi Pantotrichum, Cortex Eucommiae, Ootheca, Fructus Schisandrae, etc.

  19.For failure in nourishing eyes and blurred vision due to yin-deficiency of the liver and kidney:
 For failure in nourishing eyes and blurred vision due to yin-deficiency of the liver and kidney, it can be used with herbs for nourishing the liver and bettering vision, such as Fructus Lycii, Semen Plantaginis, Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata, Semen Astragali Complanati, etc.
 Besides, this herb is also used to treat kidney-deficiency, induced or threatened abortion and chronic diarrhea due to deficiency-cold of both the spleen and kidney.
 

  20.For Habitual Constipation:
 Dodder seed sweet light warm,tonify liver and kidney,used for tonify kidney and sperm clinically.Clinical experiment data showed result: once dose over than 20 grams,stool will become mashedmore times,no bellyache,bigger intestine sound.According to the character of dodder seed for tonify kidney and Yin Yang,,could be applied for treatment of habitual Constipation,base formula combine dodder seed 25 grams, foxglove root 15 grams,areca 8 grams,water decoction, daily taken. keep 3 weeks.Case proved that dry hard stoll 1 time the 4th day after decoction,continue 2 weeks,stool normal,continue 5 decoction to consolidate curative effect, keep normal and no repeat 6 months later.

  21.Protecting the liver:
 Administered to mice by gastric gavage, Tu Si Zi can protect the subjects from CCl4-induced liver damages, decreasing the levels of SGPT, lactic acid and pyruvic acid in the serum.

  22.Effects on the sexual function and on the reproductive system:
 Administered to mice, alcohol-based extract of Tu Si Zi can significantly promote the development of the subjects' testes and epididymides. Acting like a thyrotropin, in-vitro experiments show, Tu Si Zi can promote the interstitial basic secretion of testosterone and the stimulated secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin.In rats with deficient ovaries, it can promote endometrial hyperplasia, enhance the expression of estrin receptors and progestogen receptors, inhibit the expression of IL-2 receptors in ovarian and womb interstitial cells, and increase the level of pregnendione in the serum.It can also promote in-vitro the motor capacity of human sperms and the membrane function. Hence, it is beneficial to the treatment of male infertility, and conducive to raising the success rate of artificial insemination.Tu Si Zi is also shown to increase the weight of sex organs in rats.

  23.Effects on immunity:
 Administered to mice of yang deficiency, Tu Si Zi can significantly improve the transformation function of the spleen cells¡¯ T- and B-lymphocytes.Depending on the dose and the concentration level, Tu Si Zi's water-based extract both promotes and inhibits lymphocyte transformation. Tu Si Zi regulates the production of IL-2 in a bi-directional manner.

  24.Other effects:
 Administered at large doses, EOA-1, a component of Tu Si Zi, can significantly increase the survival rate and the average survival time of transplanted low temperature-stored hearts of suckling mice.Tu Si Zi can also enhance the activity of superoxide dismutase in the erythrocyte membrane of diabetic patients, and lower the level of lipid peroxides in the serum.Administered to mice, Tu Si Zi can significantly increase the activities of Na+, K+-ATPase.And finally, Tu Si Zi can significantly inhibit cyclophosphamide-induced formation of marrow cell micronuclei in mice.
 


   Dodder Seed extracts as male sexual enhancement material:

 In line with its traditional use to purge black bile, dodder is still considered a valuable, though rarely used, herb for problems affecting the liver and gallbladder. Dodder is thought to support liver function and is taken for jaundice. Dodder has a mildly laxative effect and is also taken for urinary problems.
 With male sexual enhancement products reaching new heights of popularity in the marketplace, developers need to be on the lookout for new and promising ingredients for these products. One such effective herbal male sex tonic that is more well known in the east than the west is Dodder seed.
 Dodder seed comes from the viny parasitic climber Cuscuta chinensis that grows in China. A member of the family convolvulaceae, Dodder is an annual that produces a small brown seed with powerful effects on the male constitution.
 In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dodder seed is known as a kidney yang tonic and is widely used to remedy sexual problems like impotence, nocturnal emission, premature ejaculation, and low sperm count that arise from kidney yang deficiency. In general, it nourishes the kidney organ in the body, boosting energy levels. As such it is also helpful for others symptoms of kidney deficiency like low back pain, tinnitus, diarrhea, dizziness, and blurred vision. It also has a long history of use as a longevity herb.
 Although effective on its own, Dodder seed is often grouped with other herbs in male sexual enhancement formulas. It works particularly well when paired with sexual tonic Yin Yang Huo (Horny Goat Weed, Epimedium sagittatum; See related Extrax Fax articles #1 , #2 and #3) because of their complementary effects. Dodder Seed enhances the activity of Epimedium. Both are kidney yang tonics, both have documented effects on testosterone metabolism, but Epimedium is more warming while Cuscuta has a neutral character. In combination, the sexual enhancement effect of these herbs on the body is augmented but more balanced.
 While there is certainly a wealth of empirical evidence in the form of traditional use in China to support the effectiveness of Dodder seed, scientific studies lend further substantiation to the herb. Pharmacological studies show a cardiotonic effect in toads and a hypotensive effect in dogs.
 In male rats, the herb increased blood levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone, and enhanced the growth of testes, epididymis, and the pituitary gland. Combinations of Epimedium and Dodder seed together were shown in animal studies to increase testosterone secretion and cyclic AMP production; to stimulate the growth of the testes, epididymis, and seminal vesicle; increase cerebral blood flow; and act as a vasodilator.
 Human clinical trials also showed positive results. In one study, 50 patients with impotence were treated with a combination of Epimedium and Cuscuta for 50 days. 76% (38 patients) experienced total recovery and 16% (8 patients) were improved for a total effectiveness rate of 92%. A 2 year follow up interview was done on 20 patients from the total recovery group with no recurrance of impotence.
 Dodder seed is an effective male tonic that is interesting and novel for many western formulators. Now is a great time to try this product and consider its addition to your male enhancement products. MDidea Exporting Division process and deliver Standardized Herbal Extract of the seed of Cuscuta chinensis and is standardized to 2.5% flavonoids.
 Neuroprotective Effect of Cuscuta chinensis Lam Extract on the Neuronal Differentiated PC12 Cells Damage Induced by Reactive Oxygen Species
 Pharmacology and clinical application of traditional Chinese medicine has been extensively documented.Some study, with the comparison of the expression of apoptosis proteins p53, Bax and Bcl-2, and the level of superoxidase, glutathione, malondialdehyde of neuronal differentiated PC12 cells in the absence and/or presence of Cuscuta chinensis Lam extract, we found that Cuscuta chinensis Lam extract, in a dose-dependent manner, prevents the neuronal differentiated PC12 cells damage from reactive oxygen species.
 


   Dodder plant extracts as good cancer inhibitor:

 UK Researchers and other Sceintists from Europe found from clinical experiment that Dodder plant extracts could be used to cure breast cancer and other cancer of skin, this dodder plant extracts could be used to inhibit tumor and show good appearance more than imagination.The mechanism mainly for dodder plant extracts could stimulate immune system.
 To study chemical characterization and immunological activities of an acidic polysaccharide, CHC-1, isolated and purified from the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam.
 Method:Both chemical and spectral methods were used to investigate the chemical characterization of CHC-1. Effect of CHC-1 on the proliferation rates of T- and B-lymphocytes both in vivo and in vitro, and antibody production in vivo was measured at various concentrations of CHC-1.
 Conclusion:The molecular weight of CHC-1 was estimated to be more than 1.0¡Á106. The analytical results of sugar components indicated that CHC-1 was composed of Rha, Ara, Gal, and GalA in a molar ratio of 0.8:1.0:1.5:0.3. Methylation analysis and 1H, 13C NMR further identified the linkages of the residues of CHC-1. CHC-1 0.1 g/L promoted remarkably the proliferation of T-cells and B-cells in vitro. CHC-1 25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg caused an evident increase in spleen weight, lymphocyte proliferation, antibody production, etc. But its effect on IgG levels was not significant.
 Suggestion:CHC-1 is a highly branched heteropolysaccharide and possessed immune enhancement activities.
 Not believe?Just Try the super dodder plant extracts.
 


   Tinnitus Relief Formula Material.:

 Cuscuta:The active ingredients of Cuscuta chinensis can be found in grayish yellow seeds also known as Chinese dodder seeds. Cuscuta seeds are used alone and in combination with astragalus seeds (Asragalus complanatus), in the treatment of tinnitus as a tinnitus vitamin treatment, dizziness and blurred vision.
 Foxglove Root Chinese Foxglove Root (Rehmannia Glutinosa) is used in the treatment of many illusive medical conditions. This drug (which is prepared by being cooked in wine) has been effective in treating tinnitus, lightheadedness, hearing loss, palpitations, blurred vision, constipation and insomnia. The cooked preparation is recommended over the raw version as a tinnitus vitamin treatment. Consult a Chinese medicine practitioner regarding dosages and combining Chinese foxglove root with other herbal remedies. The cooked Chinese foxglove root can distend the abdomen and has been associated with loose stools. Consequently, those with digestive problems should use this medication with caution.
 Caution must always be used with the preparation of foxglove, which is the origin of digitalis, as it can affect the heart.
 


   Polysaccharide of Cuscuta Chinesis and its Immunological Adjuvant Effect.:

 The result indicated that the hot water extract of seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. is able to elicit specific antibody against synthetic peptide or tumor-associated carbohydrate antigens that may has potential as an adjuvant for therapeutic vaccines.
 Immunotherapy of human cancer based on peptide as well as carbohydrate tumor-associated antigens is a rapidly growing experimental area.
 Both synthetic peptides and carbohydrate tumor-associated antigens are poor immunogenic substances which are very difficult to elicit specific antibody against peptide or carbohydrate antigens without adjuvant help. A great need thus exists for safe and effective adjuvants.
 The hot water extracts were prepared from 13 Chinese herbs, and the polysaccharides were precipitated with ethanol. The polysaccharides were mixed with synthetic peptide or tumor-associated carbohydrate antigens and used for immunizing Balb/c mice and the serum titer were monitored every week.
 Immunotherapy of human cancer based on peptide as well as carbohydrate tumor-associated antigens is a rapidly growing experimental area.
 


   Vision Formular for Cataract and Glaucoma and Dodder Seed Combination:

 Vision formula is sepcially developed herb remedy for cataract of aged people, losing eyesight, dizzle and unclear vision, glaucoma symptoms. It is also often used to enhance eye recovery after cataract surgery. Its effectiveness is based on the Traditional Chinese medicine vision care theory that decreasing of vision is not only related to eye itself but also related to the regularity of other key organs, esp. liver and kidney. The herbs is specially selected to promote blood circulation of the whole body as well as eye, vigorize "qi", and provide energy needed to keep an sharp vision
 Major Ingredients:Nobel dendrobium stem (Dendrobium mobile Lindl); Dodder seed (Cuscuta chinensis Lam); Rhurarb root (Rheum officinale Baill); Prepared Foxglove root (Rehmannia glutinosa); Ox-knee root (Achyranthes bidentata Baill); Wolfberry root-bark (Lycium chinesis Mill); Puncturevine caltrap fruit(Tribulus terrestris L.); Chrysanthemum flower (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat); Schisandra fruit (Schisandra chinensis); Matrimony vine fruit; Foxglove root (Rehmannia glutinosa); White Peony root (Paeonia lactiflora Pall); Tang kwei root (Angelica sinensis);


   Administration and Dosage:

 A decoction is typically made with 10-15g of Semen Cuscutae with three to four cups of boiling water until the volume is reduced by half.1 A decoction is usually taken orally and split into two doses but this dose may taken all at once or escalated depending on the person's condition and recommendation by the Chinese medicine practitioner
 


   Adverse Effect, Side Effects and Cautions,Toxity:

 It is contraindicated in individuals with excessive fire in the kidneys that increase libido and prolong erectness of the penis or in individuals who have constipation and dry stools.

  Toxicity and Safety:

 Acute toxicity: The LD50 of ethanol extracts of Semen Cuscutae injected intradermally (i.d.) into mice was found to be 2.465g/kg.
 Acute toxicicity experiment 7 d,no mice death,good conditions in activity,intake,stools and skins,showed dodder water extract,dodder ethanol extract and dodeer polysaccharide safe enough, LD50 Oral.no less than 20 g/kg.
 Subchronic toxicity:  Rats gavage fed with 30-40g/kg of Semen Cuscutae water extract did not appear to have any intoxification symptoms. Furthermore, when rats were administered with 4.15g/kg Semen Cuscutae water extract or tincture, once a day for 70 days by gavage feed, no developmental abnormality and/or pathological change was noted.
 Reference: Jiangsu New Medical College, Pharmacopoeia of Chinese medicine, Shanghai People Hygiene Publisher, Shanghai, China 1997;2006.
 

  Preparations:In Western herbalism, the entire thread-like stems of cuscuta are used. They are boiled in water along with such herbs as ginger and allspice to make a decoction. In Chinese herbalism, only the seeds are used. They are almost always used in combination with other herbs, as in concha marguerita and ligastrum formulas.

  Precautions:No special precautions are necessary when cuscuta is used in the doses normally prescribed by herbalists.

  Side effects:No side effects have been reported when cuscuta is used in doses prescribed by herbalists.

  Interactions:Cuscuta has been used for centuries with other Chinese herbs without any reported interactions. Studies of interactions between cuscuta and Western pharmaceuticals have not yet been performed.


  Scientific References:

  1.Cuscuta chinensis.Dodder.Dodder seed extract Pharmacological Actions.