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[Classified as Upper Grade in the *Shennong Bencao Jing*]
Huangjing (Polygonati Rhizoma), also known as Wuji Zhi (Pentad-Earth Mushroom), should correspond and match with Huangzhi (Yellow Mushroom). It gathers the essence of the Nine Earths to defend against the invasion of the Eight Winds.

【Flavor and Nature】Sweet, neutral, non-toxic.

【Indications】Primarily tonifies the Middle Jiao (Middle Burner) and supplements Qi, dispels wind-dampness, and calms the Five Viscera. Long-term consumption makes the body light, prolongs life, and prevents hunger.

【Verification】It is said: Yang Gong of the Sui Dynasty stated that Huangjing is the essence among mushroom herbs. The *Wufu Jing* records: "Huangjing obtains the pure essence of Heaven and Earth, hence its name Wuji Zhi." It grows in both the north and south, with those from Songshan and Maoshan being superior. Seedlings emerge in the third lunar month, growing one to two chi high. Each root produces only one stem; the stem is soft and brittle, yellow at the base and reddish at the tip. The leaves resemble bamboo, are not sharp but short, and may appear in pairs, threes, fours, fives, or sixes, always opposite each other. If they grow asymmetrically without opposing pairs, it is called "Pianjing" (biased essence). In the fourth lunar month, it blooms with pale green-white flowers, resembling small bean flowers. The seeds are white like millet grains, named Chuizhu (Hanging Pearls), named for their shape. The rhizome resembles young ginger but is yellow, similar to Jiujiao (Podophyllum) and Huanglian (Coptis). It has one node per year; the nodes are large and uneven, with large ones the size of a fist and small ones the size of a thumb. There is a variety where the stem, leaves, and root look similar, but the stem is not purplish-red, and the leaf tips have two hooked hairs; this is Gouwen (Gelsemium elegans), which is fatal if ingested by mistake. The *Bowuzhi* records: The Yellow Emperor asked Tian Lao, "Among plants born of heaven and earth, is there any that, when eaten, makes one immortal?" Tian Lao replied, "The herb of the Sun is named Huangjing; eating it can lead to longevity. The essence of the Yin is named Gouwen; it must not be eaten, as it causes immediate death." Today, people believe only that Gouwen kills, but do not believe that Huangjing extends life; is this not confusing? Processing: Wash clean with stream water, steam from Si hour (9-11 AM) to Zi hour (11 PM-1 AM), slice thinly, and dry in the sun for medicinal use. For dietary consumption, it is best eaten raw. Initially, only one and a half cun can be consumed; excessive amounts will pierce the throat. Gradually increase the dosage. After ten days of fasting from other foods, consuming up to three chi five cun of Huangjing is possible. After three hundred days, one may see spirits and ghosts; over time, the body becomes light and capable of flight. Avoid plums.

【Commentary】Huangjing cannot arise spontaneously; it uniquely possesses the great form and function of the Earth element, hence its name Huangjing. Also known as Wuji Zhi. Since Earth resides in the center, it tonifies the center and benefits Central Qi. When invaded by wind, causing the Earth's form to be lost, or when rendered ineffective by damp mud, Huangjing replenishes the substance of Earth and fulfills its function. Even within the central viscera, it helps to stabilize them. The human body and shell are all governed by Earth; becoming light, prolonging life, and avoiding hunger are all matters pertaining to Earth.