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Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract

Also known as: Poria, Fuling, Tuckahoe, *Poria cocos*

Overview

*Poria cocos* is a medicinal mushroom that primarily grows on the roots of pine trees. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic effects and health benefits. The extract is rich in active compounds such as pachymic acid, ergosterol, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its potential effectiveness in various health conditions. Research has focused on its applications in enhancing sleep quality, alleviating inflammation, and supporting type 2 diabetes management. The current body of evidence suggests moderate research maturity, but the quality of studies varies significantly, highlighting the need for more robust clinical trials to validate its uses and mechanisms.

Benefits

Research indicates that *Poria cocos* has several health benefits. For sleep quality, clinical trials have demonstrated significant improvements in total sleep time and reduction in sleep disturbances, particularly in individuals with insomnia (effect size moderate, *p* = 0.014). With respect to type 2 diabetes management, systematic reviews reveal that herbal formulations including *Poria cocos* can lower fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, providing significant clinical benefits in diabetic populations (mean difference -0.82 mmol/L and -0.64%, respectively). Anti-inflammatory properties have also been suggested, yet further research is warranted to confirm these effects and elucidate their mechanisms.

How it works

*Poria cocos* is thought to enhance sleep quality primarily through interaction with the GABAergic system. Key active compounds, especially pachymic acid, modulate neurotransmitter activities, which can promote relaxation and improve overall sleep architecture. These interactions with central nervous system pathways underline its sedative properties. However, research regarding its absorption and bioavailability remains limited, necessitating further investigations.

Side effects

While *Poria cocos* is generally regarded as safe, comprehensive safety data are lacking. Common adverse effects may include mild gastrointestinal upset, and rare occurrences of allergic reactions have been noted in some individuals. It is essential to exercise caution when combining it with sedatives or diabetes medications due to potential interactions. Due to insufficient safety data, its use is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Special attention is recommended for children and those with severe health conditions.

Dosage

The dosage of *Poria cocos* typically ranges from 400 to 800 mg per day, aimed at enhancing sleep quality and managing other health conditions. Although a minimum effective dose has not been precisely established, 800 mg/day has been commonly used in studies targeting sleep improvement. This supplement is best taken before bedtime to maximize its sleep-enhancing benefits. Variations in bioavailability and effectiveness may occur based on the extraction method, with ethanol extracts being frequently utilized. An upper safety threshold is not well-defined, so caution should be exercised when exceeding recommended doses.

FAQs

Is *Poria cocos* safe for everyone?

Generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider, especially if on medications, pregnant, or breastfeeding.

When should *Poria cocos* be taken?

It is advised to take it before bedtime for optimal sleep benefits.

How long does it take to see results?

Improvements in sleep quality may become noticeable within a few days to a couple of weeks.

Can I take *Poria cocos* with other supplements?

Consult with a healthcare professional before combining with other supplements or medications.

Is *Poria cocos* a substitute for medical treatment?

No, it should not replace prescribed treatments; consult a healthcare provider for chronic issues.

Research Sources

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0278536 – This clinical trial on 21 individuals with insomnia demonstrated significant improvements in sleep duration and quality over a two-week period, highlighting *Poria cocos*' potential for enhancing sleep. However, the small sample size limits the generalizability of the findings.
https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/bmjopen/5/12/e007291.full.pdf – A systematic review examining the effects of herbal formulations including *Poria cocos* on type 2 diabetes management reported considerable reductions in fasting blood glucose levels, based on data from over 6,000 participants across multiple trials. The findings underscore the effectiveness of combining *Poria cocos* with other anti-diabetic therapies, though high heterogeneity among studies poses methodological challenges.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/19/4242 – This research explores the preclinical mechanisms by which pachymic acid, a compound in *Poria cocos*, influences GABAergic transmission to enhance sleep. While the study provides valuable insights, findings are derived from animal models, calling for further human studies to validate the observed effects.

Score: 60/100