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Poria Fungus Extract

Also known as: Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf, Fuling, Hoelen, Tuckahoe, Poria cocos

Overview

Poria cocos, also known as Fuling or Tuckahoe, is a medicinal mushroom widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is the sclerotium of the Poria cocos fungus, primarily cultivated in China. The extract contains bioactive compounds such as terpenoids and polysaccharides. Poria cocos is emerging as a supplement for sleep enhancement, adjuvant cancer therapy, and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Research includes human clinical trials, with evidence quality rated as moderate for sleep and preliminary for oncology. It is available in various forms, with ethanol extracts being optimal for triterpene concentration. The primary uses are related to its potential sedative, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties, making it a versatile ingredient in traditional and modern applications.

Benefits

Poria cocos extract has shown potential benefits in several areas. For sleep quality, studies indicate increased total sleep time (by approximately 30 minutes) and reduced arousal duration. It also appears to improve REM sleep architecture by increasing REM duration and reducing transition latency. In glycemic control, meta-analyses suggest that Poria cocos-containing formulae, when combined with hypoglycemic drugs, improve fasting blood glucose levels compared to drugs alone. For oncology support, evidence is mixed, with some meta-analyses suggesting adjunctive benefits in quality of life, although individual trials have shown varying results. The sleep benefits are supported by RCTs, while glycemic control and oncology benefits require further high-quality research.

How it works

Poria cocos exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It modulates GABAergic activity by enhancing chloride influx via GABA_A receptors, which contributes to its sedative properties. The polysaccharides present in Poria cocos have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB signaling. Additionally, triterpenes in the extract may enhance insulin sensitivity, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood. These actions collectively influence sleep, inflammation, and glucose metabolism, making Poria cocos a multi-faceted supplement. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the specific pathways and interactions within the body.

Side effects

Common side effects of Poria cocos extract include mild gastrointestinal discomfort, which is often dose-dependent. In rare cases, hypokalemia has been reported. Due to its GABAergic activity, there is a theoretical risk of potentiating the effects of sedative medications. Poria cocos is contraindicated during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. It is important to monitor potassium levels, especially in individuals prone to electrolyte imbalances. Individuals taking sedatives or other central nervous system depressants should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using Poria cocos. Overall, while generally considered safe, awareness of potential side effects and interactions is crucial.

Dosage

The effective dose of Poria cocos extract for sleep enhancement is around 800 mg per day, as demonstrated in clinical trials. A typical dosage range is between 500 to 1,000 mg per day, using a standardized extract. For optimal triterpene concentration, an ethanol extract (75% concentration) is recommended. It is best taken at night to promote sleep. While specific upper limits have not been established, exceeding 1,000 mg per day may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Individual responses can vary, so it is advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed, while monitoring for any adverse effects.

FAQs

Does it cause dependency?

There is no evidence to suggest that Poria cocos extract leads to dependency, tolerance, or withdrawal symptoms based on available research.

How soon can I expect to see sleep effects?

Clinical trials have shown that improvements in sleep quality can be observed within approximately two weeks of consistent use.

What is the best form of Poria cocos?

Alcohol-extracted triterpenes are considered superior to hot water-extracted polysaccharides due to their enhanced bioavailability and efficacy.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10574255/ – This open-label RCT (n=21) investigated the effects of 800 mg/day of Poria cocos extract on sleep architecture over 4 weeks. The study found significant improvements in total sleep time and reductions in arousal duration, suggesting a positive impact on sleep quality. However, the lack of a placebo control and small sample size limit the strength of the conclusions.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9714931/ – This meta-analysis of 9 RCTs examined the effects of Poria cocos-containing formulae on glycemic control in T2DM patients. The analysis indicated that combining Poria cocos with hypoglycemic drugs improved fasting blood glucose levels compared to drugs alone. However, the high heterogeneity among the included studies (I²>50%) warrants caution in interpreting the results.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.788810/full – This study investigated the GABAergic modulation of Poria cocos extract in isolated ganglion cells. The research found that Poria cocos extract mimics pentobarbital's chloride flux, suggesting a mechanism for its sedative effects. While the findings provide mechanistic clarity, they lack in vivo confirmation and direct relevance to human physiology.
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/11/6629 – This article discusses the traditional uses and chemical composition of Poria cocos, highlighting its various bioactive compounds. It provides a comprehensive overview of the historical applications and potential health benefits of Poria cocos, emphasizing the need for further research to validate its efficacy and safety. The review covers a wide range of potential therapeutic applications, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects.
https://wjnu.org/index.php/wjnu/article/view/433/375 – This study investigates the effect of Poria cocos on the proliferation of cancer cells. The research indicates that Poria cocos has anti-cancer properties. The study provides insights into the potential therapeutic applications of Poria cocos in cancer treatment.