Poria Cocos Skin vs Betula Pendula Bark

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Poria Cocos Skin

Wolfiporia extensa

Urinary

Betula Pendula Bark

Betula pendula

Urinary

⚠️ Pregnancy & Nursing Warnings

Poria Cocos Skin

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Betula Pendula Bark

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Outer brown skin of the poria mushroom used in TCM specifically for its stronger diuretic and edema-resolving properties compared to the white inner flesh.

Bark and leaves of the silver birch tree used in Northern European traditional medicine as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and skin herb.

Active Compounds

pachymic acid, polyporenic acid C, tumulosic acid, beta-glucans

betulin, betulinic acid, lupeol, tannins, flavonoids

Traditional Uses

edema, skin edema, urinary blockage, dampness skin conditions

urinary infections, edema, rheumatism, skin conditions, fever

Modern Uses

diuretic, anti-inflammatory, skin edema

diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor research

Adult Dosage

15–30g decoction

4–6g dried leaves as tea 3x daily or 300mg betulin extract

Contraindications

urinary frequency from cold deficiency

kidney disease, edema from heart/kidney failure, pregnancy high doses

Side Effects

very well tolerated

increased urination, mild digestive upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E

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