Cuscuta rausii
NameCuscuta rausii
Scientific NameCuscuta rausii
Common NamesDodder, Love Vine, Strangleweed
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatTypically found in Mediterranean regions, such as Greece, parasitizing a variety of herbaceous plants and shrubs in disturbed areas, fields, and natural ecosystems.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsantioxidant,anti-inflammatory,adaptogen
Traditional UsesWhile specific traditional uses for Cuscuta rausii are not well-documented, other Cuscuta species (like C. chinensis) have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to tonify kidney yang, benefit the liver, improve vision, and treat conditions such as impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, and blurred vision.
Active Constituentsflavonoids, lignans, polysaccharides, saponins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsDue to its parasitic nature and potential for toxicity, internal use should be approached with caution and under professional guidance. General contraindications for Cuscuta species include pregnancy, yin deficiency with heat signs, and conditions of blood stasis.
Cultivation NotesAs an obligate parasitic plant, Cuscuta rausii cannot be cultivated independently. It requires a suitable host plant to germinate, attach, and derive all its nutrients, making deliberate cultivation challenging and generally undesirable due to its weed-like nature.
Raritycommon
Description
Cuscuta rausii is an obligate parasitic plant characterized by its slender, reddish, thread-like stems that twine around host plants. It lacks true leaves and produces small, clustered, purplish-pink, bell-shaped flowers. It obtains nutrients by penetrating the host's vascular system via haustoria.
