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Fu Ling (茯苓), the fungus Poria cocos, gently promotes urination and drains dampness, strengthens the Spleen, and calms the spirit. Balanced and widely used, it neither over-cools nor over-warms.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Poria cocos (Poria)
Common English Name
Poria / hoelen
Taste
Sweet, bland
Temperature
Neutral
Channels Entered
Heart, Spleen, Kidney
Actions & Functions
- Promotes urination and drains dampness
- Strengthens the Spleen and harmonises the middle burner
- Calms the spirit (palpitations, insomnia)
Indications
Oedema and difficult urination; Spleen deficiency with damp, loose stools and poor appetite; phlegm-fluid; and palpitations and insomnia.
Dosage
9-15 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Bai Zhu (Si Jun Zi Tang) to strengthen the Spleen and drain damp; with Gui Zhi for phlegm-fluid.
Cautions & Contraindications
Use with caution where there is frequent urination from cold or yang deficiency.
