What is the difference between Yuanzhi and processed Yuanzhi? One article tells the two medicinal herbs apart

Yuanzhi (Polygala tenuifolia root) is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine, first recorded in the Shennong Bencao Jing, listed as a top-grade herb and regarded as a vital life-nourishing medicine; it is a national Class III protected medicinal herb. In clinical use there are three forms: raw Yuanzhi, processed Yuanzhi and honey-fried Yuanzhi, with prescription names Yuanzhi, processed Yuanzhi and honey-fried Yuanzhi. Do you know how they differ? Let's take a look together below!

Raw Yuanzhi

Raw Yuanzhi is called Yuanzhi in prescriptions; it is the original medicinal material with impurities removed, cut into sections and used raw. It has the functions of calming the mind and boosting intelligence, eliminating phlegm and reducing swelling, and is used for insomnia with many dreams, forgetfulness and palpitations, mental confusion, difficult expectoration of phlegm, sores and swellings, and breast swelling and pain caused by disharmony between the heart and kidney.

Processed Yuanzhi

Processed Yuanzhi, also known as soaked Yuanzhi or clear Yuanzhi, is clean Yuanzhi soaked in a decoction of licorice, then removed and sun-dried for medicinal use; it tends to calm the mind and soothe the spirit.

Honey-fried Yuanzhi

Honey-fried Yuanzhi, also known as honey Yuanzhi, is clean Yuanzhi fried with honey for medicinal use. The method is to take honey-fried Yuanzhi, add refined cooked honey and a little boiling water, mix well, let it sit briefly, then stir-fry in a pot over gentle heat until it no longer sticks to the hand, take it out and let it cool. It tends to eliminate phlegm and relieve cough.