Cuscuta racemosa
NameCuscuta racemosa
Scientific NameCuscuta racemosa
Common NamesDodder, Love Vine, Strangleweed
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatParasitic on various host plants in disturbed areas, fields, roadsides, and gardens, thriving in temperate to tropical regions where suitable hosts are abundant.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsadaptogen,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant,diuretic
Traditional UsesTraditionally, species of Cuscuta, particularly their seeds, are used in herbal medicine to tonify the kidney and liver, improve vision, and treat conditions like impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, and blurry vision. The whole plant has also been used for various ailments and as a general tonic.
Active Constituentsflavonoids, lignans, polysaccharides, coumarins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsContraindicated during pregnancy and lactation, and for individuals with yin deficiency with heat signs. May interact with certain medications due to potential diuretic or hormonal effects. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Cultivation NotesNot typically cultivated for medicinal purposes due to its obligate parasitic nature. It requires a host plant to grow and extract nutrients, often considered a weed in agricultural settings.
Raritycommon
Description
Cuscuta racemosa is a parasitic annual vine characterized by its slender, leafless, yellowish-orange stems that twine tightly around host plants. It produces small, clustered, whitish flowers along its stems, lacking true roots once established on a host.
