Warty Dodder
NameWarty Dodder
Scientific NameCuscuta campestris
Common NamesWarty Dodder, Field Dodder, Golden Dodder, Prairie Dodder
Plant FamilyConvolvulaceae
Natural HabitatWidespread in temperate and tropical regions, found in disturbed areas, agricultural fields, gardens, roadsides, and wetlands, parasitizing a broad range of herbaceous plants and some shrubs.
Parts Usedwhole_plant,seed
Medicinal Actionsdiuretic,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant,adaptogen
Traditional UsesIn traditional medicine, particularly Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) where related species like Cuscuta chinensis seeds (Tu Si Zi) are highly valued, dodder is used to tonify kidney yang, benefit the liver, and improve vision. It has also been traditionally used as a diuretic, for liver support, and to treat various skin conditions.
Active ConstituentsFlavonoids, Lignans, Polysaccharides, Coumarins, Saponins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder
Contraindications & WarningsContraindicated during pregnancy, for individuals with spleen deficiency causing loose stools, and potentially interacts with blood-thinning medications. Due to its parasitic nature, careful identification and preparation are crucial.
Cultivation NotesDodder is a parasitic plant that cannot be cultivated independently; it requires a living host plant to survive and grow. It is often considered an agricultural weed rather than a cultivated medicinal plant.
Raritycommon
Description
Cuscuta campestris is a parasitic annual plant characterized by its slender, leafless, yellowish-orange to reddish stems that twine around host plants. It produces small, white to cream-colored, five-petaled flowers in dense clusters along its stems. The plant lacks chlorophyll and obtains all its nutrients from its host via haustoria.
