Diuresis via modulation of renal function from herbs like Poria cocos

The diuretic effects of Poria cocos, a medicinal fungus used in traditional Chinese medicine, are attributed to its triterpenoid components, particularly lanostane-type triterpenoids. Poria cocos extracts promote diuresis primarily by increasing urinary sodium and chloride excretion with variable effects on potassium excretion, and can exert renal protective effects in various forms of kidney disease. The underlying molecular mechanisms involve the modulation of multiple signaling pathways related to renal function, including TGF-β1/Smad, Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB, Nrf2, and the renin-angiotensin system. These effects are not due to interaction with a single, defined molecular receptor or enzyme, but rather to a complex, multi-pathway modulation of renal and inflammatory processes by multiple bioactive constituents present in the herb.

Other names

Diuretic mechanism of Poria cocosRenal modulation by Poria cocosPoria cocos diuretic effect

Modulation of signaling pathways involved in renal and electrolyte homeostasis, e.g.: TGF-β1/Smad pathway, Wnt/β-catenin pathway, IκB/NF-κB pathway, Keap1/Nrf2 signaling, Renin-angiotensin system (RAS), Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, Inhibition of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity. Increased sodium and chloride urinary excretion; in some cases potassium-sparing activity.