Poria mushroom (Poria cocos, also known as Fu Ling) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is commonly prescribed as part of herbal formulas for liver-related conditions, including hepatitis. In TCM, Poria is believed to promote urination, strengthen the spleen, and calm the mind. It is often used to help manage symptoms of dampness and edema, which are sometimes associated with liver dysfunction in TCM theory. However, the rationale for its use in hepatitis is based on traditional concepts rather than any direct targeting of hepatitis viruses or liver inflammation as understood in modern medicine.

Scientifically, there is very limited evidence to support the use of Poria mushroom specifically for hepatitis. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that compounds in Poria cocos may possess hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. However, these findings are preliminary, and there are no well-designed clinical trials demonstrating that Poria is effective in treating hepatitis in humans. The majority of evidence for its use relates to traditional practices and anecdotal accounts rather than modern scientific validation. Therefore, while it is traditionally used as a supportive ingredient in herbal formulas for liver health, the evidence supporting its efficacy for hepatitis is weak and primarily historical.