2Fu Ling-Poria cocos-Poria sclerotium

Fu Ling, a type of medicinal fungus that grows on pine roots, is one of the most commonly used herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is valued for its ability to drain dampness, strengthen the Spleen, promote urination, and calm the Shen (spirit). Mild in nature and wide in application, Fu Ling is suitable for treating digestive issues, water retention, edema, palpitations, and restlessness, especially in patterns involving Spleen deficiency and damp accumulation.

Functions & Benefits

Promotes Urination and Drains Dampness
Used for edema, urinary difficulty, and fluid retention, particularly when caused by Spleen Qi deficiency or obstruction of water pathways.

Strengthens the Spleen and Supports Digestion
Helps with poor appetite, diarrhea, bloating, and fatigue associated with weak digestive function.

Calms the Shen and Soothes the Mind
Treats palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia, particularly when due to Spleen and Heart disharmony or accumulation of dampness affecting the Heart.

Harmonizes the Middle Jiao
Used to support the action of other herbs and regulate the digestive system in complex formulas.

Indications
People experiencing bloating, fatigue, diarrhea, or water retention
Individuals suffering from palpitations, restlessness, or insomnia due to dampness or emotional strain
Patients with urinary difficulty, puffiness, or damp accumulation
Those with Spleen Qi deficiency or chronic digestive issues

Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale with a white, greasy coating (indicating dampness and deficiency)
Pulse: Slippery or soft (suggesting damp retention or weak Spleen function)

Common TCM Patterns Treated by Fu Ling
Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness – Fatigue, poor appetite, loose stools, bloating
Dampness Obstructing the Lower Jiao – Edema, urinary retention, heaviness
Heart and Spleen Disharmony – Palpitations, anxiety, insomnia
Middle Jiao Disharmony – Nausea, digestive irregularity

Precautions & Contraindications
Avoid in individuals with excessive thirst from Yin deficiency without damp signs.
Use with caution in dry constitutions or depleted fluids, as Fu Ling has a mildly draining effect.
Not recommended for frequent, excessive urination or extremely cold patterns.

Conclusion
Fu Ling is a gentle, effective herb for resolving dampness, improving digestion, and calming the spirit. Its versatility and safety make it a staple in TCM formulas for fluid regulation, digestive support, and emotional well-being, especially where Spleen deficiency and damp accumulation are involved.