Clinical Applications
Shine (DS) is formulated to help restore emotional balance and ease stress-related conditions. It may be beneficial for:
- Depression and stress with low mood and fatigue
- Anxiety and irritability
- Emotional heaviness or sadness with loss of interest or motivation
- Physical manifestations of stress, such as chest tightness, abdominal bloating, weakness, or discomfort
- Suitable for individuals taking antidepressant medications, as this formula has no known drug interactions
Western Therapeutic Actions
Research and clinical use support the following therapeutic functions:
- Antidepressant effects to elevate mood and relieve depression
- Anxiolytic effects to reduce stress and ease anxiety
- Digestive support to regulate gastrointestinal function, improve energy, and restore appetite balance
TCM Therapeutic Actions
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Shine (DS) helps to:
- Spread and regulate Liver qi to ease emotional constraint
- Clear Heart fire to calm irritability and agitation
Dosage
- Standard dosage: 3 to 4 capsules, three times daily on an empty stomach
- For stronger effect: 6 to 8 capsules every 4 to 6 hours as needed
Cautions & Contraindications
- Contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing
- Contains Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata), which includes wheat. Individuals with wheat allergies should avoid use
- Contains Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), which invigorates blood circulation. Patients taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications (e.g., warfarin) should use with caution or avoid altogether due to potential bleeding risks
Nutrition
A supportive diet is essential for maintaining emotional stability and reducing the risk of depression:
- Avoid foods that deplete B vitamins and worsen mood: white bread, refined flour, sweets, soft drinks, canned foods, hydrogenated oils, and saturated animal fats
- Do not restrict complex carbohydrates too heavily, as low carbohydrate intake may contribute to serotonin depletion and worsen depression
General Guidelines for a Healthy Diet
- Eat a variety of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables in multiple colors
- Incorporate high-fiber whole grains and nuts daily
- Drink warm or hot liquids with meals to support digestion; avoid cold or iced drinks, which slow digestive function
- Consume foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E), such as citrus fruits, carrots, green leafy vegetables, and green tea, to protect cells from damage
- Chew food thoroughly to improve absorption and ease digestion
- Eat breakfast daily. According to TCM, 8–10 a.m. is the optimal time for digestive function
- Allow 2–3 hours between the last meal and bedtime to give the digestive system time to process food
- Avoid foods that cause allergic or intolerant reactions
Foods and Substances to Avoid
- Fast food, processed foods, junk food, artificial sweeteners, and carbonated drinks
- Meat, greasy foods, alcohol, caffeine, dairy products (except unsweetened low-fat yogurt), tap water, iron supplements, and pesticide-treated produce
- Foods that weaken the Spleen (responsible for post-natal qi and immune health):
- Refined sugars (cakes, desserts, candies, chocolate, soda, juice with added sugars, corn syrup, sugar substitutes)
- Raw or undercooked meats (sashimi, sushi, steak tartare)
- Cold or cooling foods (tofu, cucumber, seaweed, watermelon, citrus, papaya, pineapple, pears, bananas, etc.) unless cooked or balanced with Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii)
- Fermented foods such as cheese or fermented tofu
- Processed meats such as hot dogs, sausages, or lunch meats containing nitrites
- Hot-natured foods that damage qi and yin: mango, durian, stimulants (coffee, alcohol, energy drinks), and strong spices (garlic, chili pepper, basil, cumin, mustard, wasabi, etc.)
Lifestyle Instructions
- Use steam rooms or saunas regularly to support detoxification through sweating
- Take a 30-minute walk after meals to stimulate circulation and digestion
- Incorporate regular cardiovascular exercise for both mood and physical health
- Do not delay bowel movements—respond promptly to maintain digestive health
- Aim to sleep by 10 p.m. According to TCM, 11 p.m.–1 a.m. is when yin shifts to yang, making early rest crucial for recovery and health
- Remove or reduce toxic substances (alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, refined sugars, saturated fats, chemical-based household cleaners, and personal care products)
- Cultivate relaxation, positivity, and stress management to support emotional well-being and long-term recovery
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Never self-prescribe herbal formulas. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
Adapted from Clinical Manual of Oriental Medicine: An Integrative Approach (3rd ed., 2016, Lotus Institute of Integrative Medicine).