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Zhu Ling (豬苓), the fungus Polyporus umbellatus, strongly promotes urination and drains dampness; more draining than Fu Ling but without its tonifying or calming actions.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Polyporus umbellatus
Common English Name
Polyporus
Taste
Sweet, bland
Temperature
Neutral (slightly cold)
Channels Entered
Kidney, Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Promotes urination and drains dampness
Indications
Oedema, difficult or scanty urination, and damp diarrhoea and vaginal discharge.
Dosage
6-12 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Fu Ling, Ze Xie and Bai Zhu (Wu Ling San) to drain damp and promote urination.
Cautions & Contraindications
Lacks tonic action; avoid prolonged use in fluid/yin deficiency without damp.
