Pharmaceutical name: Sclerotium poriae cocos
Botanical name: Poria cocos
Family: Polyporaceae
Common names: Sclerotium of tuckahoe, china-root, poria, hoelen, indian bread
Properties: Sweet, bland, neutral
Parts used: Inner mass of the fungus
Channels entered: Heart, Spleen, Lung

Actions & Indications: Clears dampness, tonifies the spleen functions, calms the mind. It is used for edema, mucus, urinary imbalances, diarrhea, palpitations, vertigo, restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia.
The outer peel can be used for clearing edema. Fu shen mushroom is most effective for calming the spirit.

Cautions & Contraindications: Cases of frequent, copious urine due to cold from deficiency. This herb can counteract Radix Sanguisorbae Officinalis (di yu), Radix Gentianae Qinjio (qin jiao), and Carapax Amydae Sinensis (bie jia). Large quanitities or long term use of the herb is discouraged. Avoid useage in excessive urination or prolapse of the urogenital organs.

If you have any questions about the safety of any herb used in Chinese medicine, consult with Dr. April L. Schulte-Barclay, DAOM, LAc