Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Poria cocos, commonly known as fu ling, is a traditional Chinese medicinal fungus that has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to support urinary function and address conditions related to urination, including what would now be classified as urinary tract infections (UTIs). In TCM, fu ling is prized for its diuretic properties, helping to promote urination and reduce edema. It is often combined with other herbs in formulas designed to clear dampness and heat from the urinary tract, which are TCM concepts roughly analogous to infection and inflammation in Western medicine.

Despite its long-standing traditional use, scientific evidence directly supporting the effectiveness of fu ling for treating UTIs is limited. Most of the available data are preclinical, focusing on its general anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and mild antimicrobial effects, as well as its safety profile. There are very few high-quality human clinical trials examining fu ling as a monotherapy for UTIs. The limited studies that exist are often part of larger herbal formulas, making it difficult to isolate fu ling's specific effects. Thus, the traditional use is well established, but scientific validation remains modest, warranting a rating of 2 out of 5 for evidence. More rigorous clinical studies are needed to confirm its efficacy for UTIs specifically.

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Nature's Sunshine Kidney Activator (Chinese)