Overview
Poria Cocos (茯菟) is a foundational herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dating back to ancient texts like the Shennong Bencao Jing. It is harvested from the sclerotium of Wolfiporia extensa, a fungus growing on pine roots. Revered for its balancing properties, it is often combined with other herbs to treat conditions like edema, insomnia, and digestive disorders. In modern applications, Poria Cocos is also used in nutraceuticals and cosmetics due to its bioactive polysaccharides and triterpenes. Its neutral nature makes it adaptable to various formulations, aligning with TCM’s holistic approach.
Key Features
Poria Cocos is characterized by its diuretic and calming effects, attributed to compounds like pachymic acid and β-glucans. Its neutral thermal property (neither warming nor cooling) allows it to harmonize formulas without disrupting the body’s balance. Unlike harsh synthetic diuretics, it gently promotes urination while conserving electrolytes. Its immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory properties are increasingly studied for potential applications in chronic disease management.
Application Areas
In TCM, Poria Cocos is a staple in formulas like Si Jun Zi Tang (for spleen qi deficiency) and Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (for gynecological disorders). It is also ground into powders for teas or capsules targeting stress relief and detoxification. Beyond medicine, it is incorporated into functional foods and skincare products for its hydrating and anti-aging benefits. Research explores its potential in oncology and metabolic syndrome therapies, though clinical evidence remains preliminary.
Precautions
While generally safe, Poria Cocos should be used cautiously under TCM guidance. Overuse may exacerbate dampness-related conditions (e.g., bloating, lethargy). Contraindications include pregnancy and cold-damp syndromes. Quality control is critical: adulteration with lower-grade fungi or improper drying can reduce efficacy. Sourcing from reputable suppliers with transparency in processing methods (e.g., sulfur-free drying) is advised.
B2B Procurement Guide
B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers compliant with Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP). Key metrics include polysaccharide content (≥30% for premium grades) and absence of heavy metals/pesticides. Pricing varies by origin and processing: wild-sourced Poria from Yunnan commands a premium. Bulk purchases (100+ kg) typically offer 10–20% discounts. Contracts should specify moisture content (≤12%) and packaging (UV-resistant bags).
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：重楼苗、滇朴树、沙糖桔、佛手苗、李子苗、桃树苗、柑橘苗、金果榄、苹果苗、豆腐皮、百部苗、灯盏花、大杯苗、香橼苗、绿化苗圃、种植包回收、黄精苗、药材种苗、嫁接树苗、魔芋、果苗、药材苗、蔬菜苗、独角莲
- 主营：虎杖提取物、葛根提取物、博落回提取物、蛇床子提取物、黄芩提取物、黄芪提取物、脂质体提取物、果蔬粉提取物
- 主营：沙棘粉、枸杞粉、人参粉、茯菟提取物、香菇粉、麦芽粉、山茱萸粉、茯苓粉、黄精粉、黄芪粉、连翘粉、印楝粉、榴莲粉、菊花粉、桑葚肽、红芪粉、远志粉、香蕉粉、柴胡粉、丹参粉、葛根粉、西洋参粉、天麻粉、八角粉、罗汉果粉、桔梗粉
- 主营：苜蓿粉、亚麻籽提取物、柠檬粉、茯菟提取物、白果仁提取物
- 主营：桃花粉、辣椒粉、玛卡粉、茯菟提取物、青果粉、厚朴粉、果蔬粉、野樱莓、甘蓝粉、山楂粉、草莓粉、印楝粉、川芎粉、榴莲粉、浓缩粉、苦瓜粉、芦笋粉、黄豆粉、大枣粉、山药粉、甘草粉、三七粉、茼蒿粉、丝兰粉、枸杞粉、苜蓿粉
- 主营：药食同源、果蔬粉、植物提取物、茯菟提取物、新食品原料
- 主营：八角粉、丁香粉、黄芪粉、茯菟提取物、丁香酚、浓缩粉、灵芝粉、西洋参粉、杜仲叶粉、山茱萸粉、铁皮石斛粉
- 主营：沙棘粉、枸杞提取物、茯苓粉、茯菟提取物、桂圆粉、山楂粉、苹果粉、甘草粉、百合粉、枳椇子粉、人参粉、肉苁蓉粉
- 主营：杜仲叶粉、杜仲叶黄酮、杜仲叶浓缩粉、茯菟提取物、杜仲叶提取物、喷雾干燥粉末
- 主营：白芍芽
- 主营：药食同源、果蔬粉