The Efficacy, Functions, and Contraindications of Poria (Fu Ling)
Disease description:
My younger aunt has some edema and plans to buy some Poria (Poria cocos) to reduce the swelling, but she is afraid of using it incorrectly. What are the effects, functions, and contraindications of Poria?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Poria, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is primarily used for promoting diuresis and resolving dampness, strengthening the spleen and stomach, and calming the heart and mind. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, Poria is commonly used to treat symptoms such as edema, difficult urination, diarrhea caused by spleen deficiency, palpitations, and insomnia. Functions and effects:
1. Immune regulation: Components in Poria can regulate the immune system and enhance human immunity.
2. Strengthening the spleen and harmonizing the stomach: For patients with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold and indigestion, Poria has the effect of strengthening the spleen and harmonizing the stomach.
3. Promoting diuresis and reducing edema: Poria has a diuretic effect and can effectively alleviate symptoms such as edema, phlegm accumulation, and diarrhea due to spleen deficiency.
4. Relieving cough and eliminating dampness: Poria exerts certain therapeutic effects on patients with chronic cough due to its cough-relieving and dampness-resolving properties.
5. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects: Poria has a relatively significant inhibitory effect on bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, helping to control infections and inflammation.
Contraindications:
1. Use with caution in individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold: Although Poria is neutral in nature, it tends to promote dampness removal. Excessive use may exacerbate symptoms such as abdominal cold pain and loose stools in individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold.
2. Pregnant women should use with caution: Although Poria is generally considered safe, pregnant women should consult a physician before using any medication or herbal remedy to ensure it does not affect fetal health.
3. Not suitable for those with yin deficiency and fire hyperactivity: Due to its diuretic and dampness-resolving properties, Poria may affect fluid preservation in patients with yin deficiency and fire hyperactivity (manifesting as dry mouth and throat, five-center heat, etc.), potentially worsening symptoms.
