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[Adverse Effects] Radish (Lai Fu) specifically directs Qi downward and consumes Blood. Long-term consumption causes stagnation of Ying and Wei (Nutritive and Defensive Qi), leading to whitening of the beard and hair. Those taking Shu Di Huang (Prepared Rehmannia Root) or He Shou Wu (Polygonum Multiflorum Fruit) should not consume it. The seed, Lai Fu Zi (Radish Seed), eliminates Phlegm and directs Qi downward even more rapidly. For those with deficiency and weakness, consuming it makes breathing difficult due to impaired Qi distribution.

[Benefits] It is acrid and warm, enters the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach meridians, and excels at promoting Qi movement. When stir-fried, it directs Qi downward and calms asthma, aids digestion, and removes distension. When raw and crushed, it can induce vomiting to expel Wind-Phlegm. Mixed with vinegar, it reduces swelling and detoxifies. Its efficacy in treating Phlegm is likened to "smashing walls and toppling battlements." If Ren Shen (Ginseng) is mistakenly ingested, Lai Fu Zi can neutralize its effects.
The whole radish is acrid, sweet, and neutral. Raw consumption promotes Qi circulation; cooked consumption directs Qi downward. It broadens the middle Jiao, aids digestion, transforms Phlegm, and dissipates Blood stasis. The leaves (also called Cai), are acrid, bitter, and warm, with similar functions but also possess strong draining properties. Leaves hung on eaves to withstand winter and frost have miraculous effects in treating Hou Bi (Sore Throat/Obstruction) and Huang Dan (Jaundice). For cases of near-death from smoke inhalation, chewing the juice and swallowing it is effective.

[Processing & Precautions] Overconsumption of boiled radish leads to stagnation forming Yi Yin (Overflowing Drink/Water Retention). Raw consumption causes belching; cooked consumption causes Qi leakage. Excessive intake seeps into the blood vessels, whitening the beard and hair. This is not solely due to its Qi-directing property, but also because it causes stagnation of Ying and Wei.

[Adverse Effects] Liu Shen Qu (Six Gods Medicated Leaven) is a product that is acrid, warm, dry, and fierce. It is unsuitable for those with Spleen Yin deficiency and Stomach Fire excess. It can cause miscarriage and is contraindicated for pregnant women. In modern pharmacies, many use Jiu Yao Qu (Wine-Medicated Leaven), which has a fierce nature that damages Zang-Fu organs and must absolutely not be consumed.

[Benefits] It is sweet, neutral, and warm, entering the Spleen and Stomach meridians. It strengthens the Spleen and aids grain digestion, so there is no worry regarding abdominal pain caused by food stagnation. It directs Qi downward and moves Phlegm, providing relief for Xie Li (Diarrhea/Dysentery) and Fan Wei (Regurgitation/Vomiting), though it can also damage the fetus.

[Processing Method] On the sixth day of the sixth lunar month or the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, take 100 jin of Bai Qu (White Leaven), along with three sheng of natural juices from Qing Hao (Artemisia Annua), Cang Er (Xanthium Fruit), and Ye Liao (Wild Smartweed), plus three sheng of Xing Ren Ni (Apricot Kernel Paste) and Chi Xiao Dou Mo (Red Bean Powder). Mix these according to the symbolism of the Six Spirits: Qing Long (Azure Dragon), Bai Hu (White Tiger), Zhu Que (Vermilion Bird), Xuan Wu (Black Tortoise), Gou Chen (Hooked Earth), and Teng She (Flying Snake). Form into cakes, wrap in Ma Ye (Hemp Leaf) or Chu Ye (Paper Mulberry Leaf), following the method for making Jiang Huang Zheng (Fermented Soybean Paste). Wait until a yellow mold layer grows, then sun-dry and store. Aged leaven is superior. Grind finely and stir-fry until yellow. Jian Shen Qu (Jian Leaven) has stronger potency and originates from Quanzhou, Fujian. The Bai Cao Qu (Hundred Herbs Leaven) made by Fan Zhi Wu Yifei weighs no more than one liang per piece. The barley grains within are whole and unbroken; when broken and chewed, a clear fragrance is perceived in the mouth, indicating authenticity. It should be stir-fried, ground into powder, and taken orally. If the barley grains are pale and odorless, it is a counterfeit. Recently, some regions use Jiu Qu (Wine Leaven) mixed with various herbs and toxic substances, creating a fierce nature that must absolutely not be used.