Harper's Dodder
NameHarper's Dodder
Scientific NameCuscuta harperi
Common NamesHarper's Dodder
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatNative to the southeastern United States, Harper's Dodder is found in moist, open habitats such as swamps, marshes, and wet prairies, where it parasitizes various herbaceous plants.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsadaptogen,antioxidant,astringent,diuretic
Traditional UsesWhile specific traditional uses for *Cuscuta harperi* are not widely documented, other dodder species (especially *Cuscuta chinensis*) are traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a kidney and liver tonic, to treat impotence, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, blurred vision, and diarrhea.
Active Constituentsflavonoids, lignans, polysaccharides, saponins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder,tincture
Contraindications & WarningsGenerally contraindicated during pregnancy and in cases of yin deficiency with heat signs. May interact with medications affecting hormones or blood sugar levels.
Cultivation NotesAs an obligate parasitic plant, Harper's Dodder cannot be cultivated independently. Its survival depends entirely on the presence of suitable host plants, making traditional cultivation impractical.
Rarityrare
Description
Harper's Dodder is a parasitic annual plant characterized by its slender, orange, thread-like stems that twine around host plants. It lacks chlorophyll and produces clusters of small, whitish, bell-shaped flowers along its stems, attaching to hosts via specialized haustoria.
