Poria cocos

Last updated 2026-11-15 — Poria cocos is a parasitic fungus belonging to the Polyporaceae family, commonly growing on pine trees as a saprophyte, with its dried sclerotium used medicinally. It has a mild nature, sweet and harmonious taste, and is non-toxic. Its therapeutic effects vary depending on the product specification. Whole Poria cocos and Poria cocos blocks primarily function to strengthen the spleen and stomach, benefit qi, calm the spirit, soothe the mind, eliminate damp heat, and promote water metabolism and relieve diarrhea. They are particularly effective in treating conditions such as abdominal distension, qi deficiency and fatigue, phlegm retention, edema, diarrhea, forgetfulness and insomnia, palpitations, and dizziness. Poria cocos peel is specifically used to treat waterlogged swelling and is an excellent diuretic and anti-edema medicine. Poria cocos can also be used to prepare herbal teas and make delicious foods such as Poria cocos cakes, showcasing its extremely wide range of uses. Guizhou Province is a major and high-yield producer of Poria cocos, with key production areas located in Kaili and Liping in the Qiandongnan Prefecture. The Poria cocos produced there is esteemed for its solid weight, brownish-black outer skin without cracks, white and fine cross-section, and strong stickiness when chewed, making it the highest quality in the country and renowned both domestically and internationally. It enjoys great popularity in the trade markets of Hong Kong, Macao, and various Southeast Asian countries. (Kaili)