The method of decoction of Poria is to soak Poria in cold water for about half an hour, then decoct with high heat, boil and then switch to low heat to cook for about half an hour.
Poria has a sweet, light flavor and flat nature. It belongs to the heart, spleen, lung and kidney meridians. It has the effects of inducing diuresis and seepage of dampness (promoting the operation of water to dispel dampness), strengthening the spleen, and tranquilizing the mind.
This product is often used in the treatment of oliguria, edema, phlegm (pathological products formed by impaired water metabolism), palpitations and dizziness, deficiency of the spleen with low food intake, loose stools, diarrhea, restlessness of the heart and mind, and insomnia. It is an important medicine for promoting water retention and eliminating edema, and can be used for both hot and cold edema.
Clinically, it is often combined with poria and zedoary, such as Wu Ling San; with Yuan Zhi, Astragalus and Angelica, such as Gui Spleen Pill; and with Atractylodes macrocephala and ginseng to strengthen the spleen and stomach, such as Ginseng-Ling-Ju Gan Tang.
Specific medication should follow the doctor’s instructions.