Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Dodder
For the body system: Bladder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chinese Dodder (Cuscuta chinensis) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Tu Si Zi." In TCM, Chinese Dodder seeds are considered to "tonify" the kidney and liver systems; the "kidney" system in TCM encompasses not only the anatomical kidneys but also functions related to reproductive health, vitality, urinary health, and sometimes aspects of the bladder. Tu Si Zi is often prescribed in herbal formulas aimed at addressing conditions like frequent urination, urinary incontinence, or nocturia (night-time urination), which are interpreted as manifestations of "kidney deficiency" that can affect the bladder's function.

However, the connection between Chinese Dodder and direct support of the bladder as understood in modern biomedical terms is not robustly established. Most contemporary scientific studies on Cuscuta chinensis focus on its antioxidant, hepatoprotective, or reproductive health effects, rather than specific bladder health outcomes. The traditional use is well documented in TCM texts and continues to influence herbal practice, but there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials validating its effects specifically on the bladder. Therefore, while the use of Chinese Dodder for bladder support is justified within the context of traditional medicine, the scientific evidence remains limited, warranting a modest evidence rating.

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