Herb Herbs that drain Dampness

Fu Ling Pi

Poria skin | 茯苓皮

Wolfiporia extensa

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TCM Properties

Temperature

Neutral

Taste

Sweet

Organ Affinity

Spleen, Kidneys, Lungs

Parts Used

Dry skin

TCM Actions & Uses

Traditional Chinese Medicine properties and applications of Fu Ling Pi

Traditional Actions

Promote urination and reduce edema

Key TCM Concepts

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Fu Ling Pi belongs to the 'Herbs that drain Dampness' category. These herbs are typically diuretics, meaning that they promotes the increased production of urine in order to remove Dampness that has accumulated in the body. According to TCM Dampness accumulates first in the lower limbs, causing edema and impaired movement. From there, if unchecked, it can move upward and impair digestion and eventually the respiratory system.

 

Furthermore Fu Ling Pi is Neutral in nature. This means that Fu Ling Pi typically doesn't affect the balance in your body. Balance between Yin and Yang is a key health concept in TCM. Eating too many "Hot" (Yang) ingredients can lead to an imbalance whereby one has a Yang Excess. The inverse is true as well: too many "Cold" (Yin) ingredients can lead to a Yin Excess. The Neutral nature of Fu Ling Pi means that you don't have to worry about that!

 

Fu Ling Pi also tastes Sweet. The so-called 'Five Phases' theory in Chinese Medicine states that the taste of TCM ingredients is a key determinant of their action in the body. Sweet ingredients like Fu Ling Pi tends to slow down acute reactions and detoxify the body. They also have a tonic effect because they replenish Qi and Blood.

 

The tastes of ingredients in TCM also determine what Organs and Meridians they target. As such Fu Ling Pi is thought to target the Spleen, the Kidney and the Lung. In TCM the Spleen assists with digestion, Blood coagulation and Fluids metabolism in the body. The Kidneys do not only regulate the urinary system but also play a key role in the reproductive system and the growth and aging process of the body. In addition to performing respiration, the Lungs are thought in TCM to be a key part of the production chain for Qi and the Body Fluids that nourish the body.

Common Applications

Edema

Preparation & Dosage

Traditional and modern methods for preparing Fu Ling Pi

Traditional Preparation

Peel the Poria-cocos mushroom skin and dry

Recommended Dosage

Note: The following information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice.

15-30g

Safety & Contraindications

Important safety information and precautions for Fu Ling Pi

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb or supplement.

Herb-Drug Interactions

Like many herbs, Fu Ling Pi may interact with certain medications. If you are taking any prescription medications, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider knowledgeable in herb-drug interactions.

Related Educational Resources

Formulas Containing Fu Ling Pi

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