The black mushroom – Hei Mu Er 黑木耳 – or Judas ear is widely used in Chinese cuisine, particularly for its dietary qualities.

According to TCM, it has a mild flavour and is neutral in nature. Its target meridian organs are the Stomach, Lung and Large Intestine. It has the ability to: refresh the blood, stop bleeding, moisten the lung and strengthen the stomach.

By moistening the Lung, it is expectorant and humidifying. As the Lung is linked to the skin, black mushroom lubricates and tones the skin; in particular, it prevents the formation of dark spots.

It also lubricates the entire digestive system (throat, oesophagus, stomach, intestine).