Are there any side effects of Poria (Fu Ling)?
Disease description:
I heard that Poria (Poria cocos) is good for health, so I took it for a period of time. Recently, my stomach has been making gurgling noises frequently, and I've also experienced mild diarrhea. Could this be caused by taking Poria? Does Poria have any side effects?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Generally, Poria (Poria cocos) may have certain side effects.
Poria, as a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, is widely used in the treatment of symptoms such as edema and difficulty in urination. Its main functions include promoting diuresis to remove dampness, strengthening the spleen and regulating the stomach, and calming the mind. Like all medicines or herbs, Poria may cause different reactions due to individual differences, and may lead to some other discomforts, such as dizziness, fatigue, and loss of appetite. These symptoms are generally mild and can resolve on their own after discontinuation of the medication. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as rashes and itching due to hypersensitivity to components of Poria.
In addition, Poria has a certain anticoagulant effect; long-term and excessive use may affect blood coagulation function and lead to bleeding. However, this typically occurs only under extreme conditions of use, and there is generally no need for excessive concern with normal usage.
Before using Poria or any other herbal medicine, it is recommended to consult a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or pharmacist to ensure its suitability for individual constitution and health condition, and to avoid self-medicating blindly, thereby ensuring its effectiveness and safety.
