Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Dodder (Cuscuta spp.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Tu Si Zi". In TCM, dodder seeds are often used to tonify the liver and kidneys, strengthen the yang, and improve vision, which are believed to be underlying causes of symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and blurred vision. The rationale is rooted in TCM theory, which links dizziness to deficiencies or imbalances in kidney and liver function, rather than to direct effects on the vestibular system or cerebral circulation as understood in modern medicine.

From a scientific perspective, there is very limited evidence to support the use of dodder for treating dizziness. A few pharmacological studies have identified anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties of dodder extracts, but these studies are preliminary, conducted mostly in vitro or in animal models, and do not specifically address dizziness as a clinical endpoint. No high-quality clinical trials have evaluated the efficacy of dodder for dizziness in humans.

In summary, the use of dodder to support or treat dizziness is primarily justified by traditional use, with modern research providing only weak and indirect support. The evidence is anecdotal and based on historical practice, resulting in a low evidence rating.

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