poria cocos

Poria cocos is a medicinal fungus widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for over two millennia. It is valued for its diuretic properties and support of kidney and spleen function. The main bioactive components include polysaccharides (notably immune-modulating glucans), triterpenoids (such as pachymic acid), sterols, and various minerals. Animal and in vitro studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of phospholipase A2 and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), immunomodulatory activity through suppression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and NF-κB/Nrf2 pathways, diuretic action by antagonizing aldosterone receptors in the kidney leading to increased urine output and sodium excretion while reducing potassium reabsorption. Poria cocos has also shown potential benefits for sleep quality enhancement in insomnia patients[1][3][4][6][7]. Clinical evidence supporting these uses remains limited; most data derive from combination herbal preparations or preclinical research.

Brand names

Yunling

Other names

fu-linghoelenindian breadtuckahoesclerotium of tuckahoewolfiporia cocoswolfiporia extensaporia mushroommatsuhodochampignon poriachina-root