American Dodder
NameAmerican Dodder
Scientific NameCuscuta gronovii
Common NamesAmerican Dodder, Gronovius' Dodder, Common Dodder, Love Vine, Strangleweed
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatIt thrives in moist, disturbed areas, fields, roadsides, and wetlands, parasitizing a wide range of herbaceous plants and shrubs by attaching haustoria to their vascular tissue.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsantioxidant,anti-inflammatory,diuretic
Traditional UsesTraditionally, various Cuscuta species, including American dodder, have been used in folk medicine for liver and kidney support, to promote urination, and as a general tonic. The seeds (Tu Si Zi in TCM) are particularly valued for kidney and liver health, vision improvement, and strengthening reproductive function.
Active Constituentsflavonoids, lignans, polysaccharides, caffeic acid derivatives
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,tincture,powder
Contraindications & WarningsDue to its parasitic nature and potential for toxicity in high doses, internal use should be approached with caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it. May interact with blood thinners or other medications.
Cultivation NotesAs a parasitic plant, it is not typically cultivated for medicinal purposes but rather managed as a weed. It requires a host plant to survive and reproduce, germinating from seed and quickly attaching to a suitable host.
Raritycommon
Description
American dodder is a parasitic annual vine characterized by its slender, leafless, yellowish-orange stems that twine tightly around host plants. It produces clusters of small, pale yellow to white, bell-shaped flowers along its stems.
