Cuscuta castroviejoi
Image: MBG (cc-by-nc)
NameCuscuta castroviejoi
Scientific NameCuscuta castroviejoi M.A.García
Common NamesDodder, Cuscuta
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatFound in undulating country in Ethiopia, at elevations around 1300m, parasitizing low shrubs, bushes, and scattered trees such as Acacia, Sterculia, Boswellia, and Commiphora.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsantioxidant,anti-inflammatory,adaptogen,diuretic,astringent
Traditional UsesIn traditional medicine, Cuscuta species (like Tu Si Zi in TCM) are used to tonify the kidney and liver, improve vision, strengthen bones, and treat conditions like impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, blurred vision, and diarrhea. It's also used for skin conditions and as a general tonic.
Active ConstituentsFlavonoids, Lignans, Polysaccharides, Saponins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsAvoid during pregnancy. May interact with blood-thinning medications or cause digestive upset in some individuals. Use with caution in cases of yin deficiency with heat signs.
Cultivation NotesAs an obligate parasitic plant, it requires a suitable host plant for germination and growth. It cannot be cultivated independently.
Rarityuncommon
Description
A parasitic herbaceous plant characterized by slender, leafless or nearly leafless, yellowish to reddish stems that twine around host plants. It produces small, clustered, greenish-white to pale brown flowers.
