Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Poria Fungus

Also known as: Poria fungus, Fuling, Poria cocos

Overview

Poria cocos, also known as Poria fungus or Fuling, is an edible and medicinal mushroom widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It grows on the roots of pine trees and is native to Asia. This mushroom contains triterpenes and polysaccharides, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties. It is primarily used for its purported health benefits, including the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research on Poria cocos is considered to be at a moderate level, with several studies focusing on its use in T2DM, but high-quality evidence for other applications remains limited. The quality of available evidence varies, with many studies exhibiting high heterogeneity and risk of bias. Poria cocos is often used as part of complex herbal formulations in TCM.

Benefits

Poria cocos has demonstrated potential benefits, particularly in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Poria cocos formulae, when combined with hypoglycaemic agents, significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (MD -0.82 mmol/L, 95% CI [-0.93, -0.71]), 2-hour postprandial blood glucose (MD -1.15 mmol/L, 95% CI [-1.31, -0.98]), and haemoglobin A1c (MD -0.64%, 95% CI [-0.75, -0.53]) in T2DM patients. Some evidence also suggests potential benefits in improving lipid profiles and insulin resistance, although these results are less consistent. The most significant benefits are observed in patients with T2DM, especially when used alongside conventional hypoglycaemic agents. These effects are typically observed within weeks to months of treatment.

How it works

The exact mechanisms of action for Poria cocos are not fully understood, but it is believed to influence glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. It interacts with the endocrine system, potentially affecting insulin and glucose regulation. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined, Poria cocos may influence enzymes involved in glucose metabolism. Limited data is available on its absorption and bioavailability, but it is believed to be absorbed when ingested as part of herbal formulae. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms by which Poria cocos exerts its effects.

Side effects

Poria cocos is generally considered safe when used as part of TCM formulae, but comprehensive safety data are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but herbal formulae can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. Specific uncommon and rare side effects are also not well-documented. Potential interactions with hypoglycaemic agents exist, although Poria cocos is often used in combination with these agents without adverse effects. Caution is advised in pregnancy and lactation due to a lack of data. Patients with severe kidney or liver disease should also exercise caution due to potential interactions. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Poria cocos, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Poria cocos is not well-established, as it is typically used as part of complex herbal formulae. Dosage varies widely depending on the specific formula and TCM practice. The maximum safe dose is also not well-defined, but it is generally considered safe within traditional usage guidelines. Poria cocos is typically taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. It is often used in decoctions or capsules as part of herbal formulae. Absorption may be influenced by the presence of other herbs in the formula. Consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner or TCM practitioner for personalized dosage recommendations.

FAQs

Is Poria cocos safe to use?

Poria cocos is generally considered safe, but comprehensive safety data are limited. Consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

When should I take Poria cocos?

Poria cocos is typically taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare practitioner or TCM practitioner.

How long does it take to see results from Poria cocos?

Benefits in glucose control may be observed within weeks to months of treatment. Individual results may vary.

Can Poria cocos replace conventional diabetes treatment?

No, Poria cocos is not a replacement for conventional diabetes treatment but may be used as an adjunct under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Research Sources

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0278536 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 73 RCTs involving 6,489 participants with T2DM found that adding Poria cocos formulae to hypoglycaemic agents reduced fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, and haemoglobin A1c levels. The treatment durations ranged from 4 to 25 weeks. The study notes moderate quality evidence due to high heterogeneity and risk of bias in many of the included studies.
https://wjnu.org/index.php/wjnu/article/view/433/375 – This article discusses the various aspects of Poria cocos, including its traditional uses and chemical composition. It highlights the presence of triterpenes and polysaccharides, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties. The article provides a general overview of the mushroom's applications in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-246/poria-mushroom – This WebMD page provides a general overview of Poria mushroom, including its uses and potential benefits. It mentions that Poria mushroom is used for various conditions, but more evidence is needed to rate its effectiveness for these uses. The page also includes information on dosage and safety precautions.
https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/FMH.2025.9420049 – This article discusses the potential of Poria cocos in food and health applications. It explores the bioactive compounds present in Poria cocos and their potential health benefits. The article highlights the need for further research to fully understand the benefits and risks of Poria cocos.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2014/925069 – This review article discusses the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Poria cocos. It highlights the potential of Poria cocos in treating various conditions, including diabetes, inflammation, and cancer. The review emphasizes the need for further research to validate these traditional uses and explore the underlying mechanisms of action.