Evidence supporting the use of: Fu ling
For the body system: Bladder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Fu Ling (Poria cocos) is a well-known fungus used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over two thousand years. Within the TCM framework, Fu Ling is classified as a diuretic and is commonly prescribed to "drain dampness" and promote urination. It is frequently included in formulas intended to support the urinary and Bladder systems, especially in cases of edema, urinary difficulty, or "damp" conditions affecting the lower body. The use of Fu Ling for Bladder health is based on these concepts, which are rooted in TCM theory rather than Western biomedical science.

While some laboratory studies have explored anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and immunomodulatory effects of Poria cocos extracts, high-quality clinical studies in humans are lacking. The evidence for its effectiveness in supporting Bladder function is thus primarily traditional, and scientific validation is limited. The rating of 3 reflects a strong and consistent historical use, with moderate in vitro and animal data but insufficient clinical trial evidence to raise the score further. Fu Ling’s reputation in supporting the Bladder system comes from centuries of empirical use in TCM, not from modern scientific studies.

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