Shine ^™

CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

* Depression with low energy, prolonged sadness or irritability, and lack of interest in daily activities

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Antidepressant effect to elevate mood and energy

* Promotes the digestion and utilization of energy

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Relieves food, qi, blood, and phlegm stagnation

* Promotes movement of qi

* Releases constraint

DOSAGE

Take 4 capsules three times daily with warm water on an empty stomach. Dosage may be increased up to 5 to 7 capsules if the condition is severe.

INGREDIENTS

Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae)

Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri)

Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong)

Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae)

Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae)

Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati)

He Huan Pi (Cortex Albiziae)

Long Gu (Os Draconis)

Mu Li (Concha Ostreae)

Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata)

Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii)

Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi)

Yu Jin (Radix Curcumae)

Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae)

Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae)

BACKGROUND

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by severe or prolonged sadness that interferes with energy levels, daily functions and quality of life. Depression is characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, poor concentration, loss of interest and pleasure, and absence of sexual desires. While the exact cause of depression is unknown, common contributing factors include heredity, endocrine disorders, neurological disorders, mental disorders, and use of certain medications.

FORMULA EXPLANATION

Shine is formulated specifically to treat depression, which according to traditional Chinese medicine is a disease caused by prolonged stagnation of qi, blood, dampness, and/or food. The treatment protocol is to break up all stagnation and nourish the internal organs.

Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi) and Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri) promote the flow of Liver qi and reduce hypochondriac distension. Yu Jin (Radix Curcumae) and Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong) relieve stagnation by invigorating blood flow. Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata) helps digestion by removing food stagnation. Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) and Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) nourish the Heart and moisten internal dryness. Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae) and He Huan Pi (Cortex Albiziae) calm the shen (spirit) and relieve depression. Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) lifts the mood. Zhi Zi (Fructus Gardeniae) sedates heat in the Heart and relieves irritability. Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii) opens the orifices, eliminates phlegm to increase alertness, and calms the shen (spirit). Long Gu (Os Draconis) and Mu Li (Concha Ostreae) have tranquilizing functions to alleviate insomnia and dream-disturbed sleep. Finally, Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati), also known as St. John's Wort, is clinically found to be effective against depression, and enhances the overall effectiveness of this formula.

In short, Shine resolves food, qi, blood, and phlegm stagnation to lift depression.

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

* This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.

* Use of Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) is sometimes associated with increased photosensitivity. Patients should avoid excessive exposure to UV irradiation (e.g., sunlight, tanning) when using this herb.

* Do not use Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) while taking prescription drug(s) without advice of your prescribing physician. The following are two herb-drug interactions:

The concurrent use of Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) and antidepressant drugs should be avoided, as the combination may lead to serotonin syndrome. The antidepressant drugs include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), tricyclic antidepressants (TCA), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI).[1]

Use of Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) may induce the cytochrome P450 system of the liver, leading to increased metabolism and decreased plasma concentration of certain drugs, such as Sandimmune/Neoral (cyclosporine), combined oral contraceptive (ethinylestradiol and desogestrel), Theo-Dur (theophylline), Lanoxin (digoxin), and Crixivan (indinavir).[2]

* Allergy warning: Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata) used in this product contains wheat. Persons with allergy to wheat should not take this product.

CLINICAL NOTES

* Depression may be treated effectively with Shine or Shine (DS).

Shine is more effective for depression characterized by stagnation (food, qi, blood and phlegm). Shine should not be used concurrently with antidepressant drugs, as this formula contains Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati), commonly known as St John's Wort.

Shine (DS) is more effective for depression with stress characterized by Liver qi stagnation and Heart fire. Shine (DS) may be used concurrently with antidepressant drugs, as there are no known interactions.

* Discontinuation of antidepressant drugs, particularly abruptly, may cause certain withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is best to taper off the drugs slowly, and offer herbal treatment simultaneously. Shine (DS) may be used concurrently with antidepressant drugs or during the tapering process. Shine should not be used until the antidepressant drugs have been discontinued for two weeks.

SUPPLEMENTARY FORMULAS

* For vegetative depression with withdrawal, no desire to speak, poor appetite, and insomnia, combine with Schisandra ZZZ.

* For depression with stress, anxiety, restlessness (manic-depressives), add Calm (ES).

* For chronic depressive patients who do not respond to any of the above treatment or show little result, add Circulation (SJ).

* For a quick boost of energy and vitality, combine with Vibrant.

* Post-partum or for constant fatigue and lack of energy, combine with Imperial Tonic.

* To strengthen the constitutional weakness and deficiency, use with Cordyceps 3.

* For loss of sexual desire, combine with Vitality.

* For over-weight or excessive weight gain, combine with Herbalite.

* For patients who are burned out with adrenal insufficiency, use with Adrenal +.

* For difficulty with concentration, poor memory or forgetfulness, use with Enhance Memory.

* With insomnia in patients who worry excessively or have anemia, Schisandra ZZZ.

* For insomnia with stress in patients with deficiency, add Calm ZZZ.

* Pre-menopausal and menopausal depression, add Balance (Heat).

* With headache, add Corydalin (AC).

* For heat sensations, irritability or nightmares due to excess fire, add Gardenia Complex.

NUTRITION

* Depression may be due in part to nutritional deficiency. Foods such as white bread, flour, saturated animal fats, hydrogenated vegetable oils, sweets, soft drinks, and canned goods deprive the body of B vitamins and increase the probability of depression.

* Avoid a diet too low in complex carbohydrates as it may cause serotonin depletion and depression.

General Guidelines for a Healthy Diet

* Eat a variety of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables of all colors.

* Incorporate more high-fiber whole grains and nuts into diet.

* Drink warm or hot liquids with meals.

* Foods with antioxidant effects, such as vitamin A, C and E are beneficial. Beneficial foods include citrus fruits, carrots, green leaf vegetables, and green tea.

* Chew food completely and thoroughly.

* Always eat breakfast. According to the TCM clock, the most optimal time for the digestive system is in the morning from 8 to 10 a.m.

* Give the body two to three hours between the last meal of the day and bedtime.

* If the patient is allergic to any food or feel uncomfortable after eating certain foods, then avoid eating them.

* Avoid fast food, processed foods, junk food, artificial sugars, and carbonated drinks.

* The Spleen is responsible for generating post-natal qi. Foods that damage the Spleen should be avoided:

Avoid any and all foods that contain sugar, such as cake, dessert, candy, chocolate, canned juice, soft drinks, caffeinated drinks, stevia, sugar substitutes, agave, xylitol, and corn syrup.

Avoid raw or uncooked meats. Minimize consumption of foods that are cooling in nature, including tofu, tomato, celery, asparagus, bamboo, seaweed, kelp, bitter melon, cucumber, gourd, luffa, eggplant, winter melon, watermelon, honeydew, citrus, oranges, guava, grapefruit, pineapple, plums, pear, banana, papaya, white radish, mustard leaf, potherb mustard, Chinese kale, napa, and bamboo sprout. To make the property more neutral, one can add about 20 pieces of Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) when cooking them.

* Warm and hot natured foods that damage qi and yin should be avoided, such as certain fruits like mango and durian, stimulants like coffee, alcohol, and energy drinks, and spicy/pungent/aromatic vegetables such as pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, funnel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi.

* Avoid food and drinks with artificial coloring.

* Consume as few meat products as possible. Do not eat processed meats, such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages, as they contain nitrites that are associated with inflammation and chronic disease.

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

* Exercise outdoors and under the sun will help to lift depression.

* A balanced lifestyle of work, rest and exercise is extremely important to achieve better mental and physical health.

* Massaging the nerves along the spine will help to relieve tension associated with depression.

CASE STUDIES

* S.J., 31-year-old female, presented with depression. Symptoms included no social desire, lack of energy in the mornings, and easily fatigued. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as qi stagnation and Kidney qi deficiency. After taking Shine at three capsules three times a day, the patient felt immediate results of more energy and elevated mood. Submitted by L.M., Gresham, Oregon.

* J.M., a 36-year-old female, presented with depression. She was a single mother with two children and a pending divorce. The diagnosis was qi and blood stagnation with Liver and Spleen disharmony. Shine was prescribed at 4 capsules three times daily. Results were apparent within 24 hours. Her depression began lifting the next day. Submitted by M.H., West Palm Beach, Florida.

* W.P., a 45-year-old female, presented with pain in the kidney and liver areas with a history of Kidney infection and pancreatitis. She was also experiencing anxiety and depression. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Liver qi stagnation with heat disturbing the shen (spirit). Upon diagnosis the patient was prescribed Shine and Kidney DTX. Within four weeks the patient noticed her mood was stable. Submitted by T.W., Perrysburg, Ohio.

* S.F., a 33-year-old female, presented with premenstrual symptoms consisting of fatigue and depression. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as qi deficiency with shen (spirit) disturbance. Imperial Tonic, Calm and Shine were prescribed at 2 to 3 capsules each, three times a day. Submitted by S.L., Yuma, Arizona.

* A.B., a 22-year-old female, presented with anxiety and fear of failure, depression, insomnia, and poor eating habits. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Liver qi stagnation and Spleen qi deficiency. Calm (ES) was prescribed during the day and Calm ZZZ at night. After two weeks she was instructed to take Schisandra ZZZ at night and Shine during the day. After 1 month, the insomnia had resolved and her depression was lifted. Submitted by N.T., Bethesda, Maryland.

* A 26-year-old female presented with chronic depression and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. According to TCM, she was diagnosed with phlegm stagnation. Within a month of taking Shine, her somnolence subsided and she became more active. Submitted by T.G., Albuquerque, New Mexico.

* A woman presented with depression and irritability, with a diagnosis of hepatitis C, fibromyalgia and Liver qi stagnation. After immediate administration of Shine, she began feeling much calmer. Submitted by M.H., Jupiter, Florida.

* A 58-year-old male teacher presented with palpitations following the death of his significant other. The diagnosis was Liver oppressing the Heart and Liver yang rising. The patient was given 4 capsules of Shine three times daily for about six months. The patient displayed a 75% improvement within two weeks. Submitted by C.C., Cromwell, Connecticut.

* A 42-year-old female finance administrator presented with plum-pit syndrome, belching, constipation, and irritability. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as Liver qi stagnation with dampness. The patient was instructed to take Shine. Significant improvements in the elimination of plum-pit qi and constipation were noted. Submitted by P.L., San Diego, California.

* H.E., a 20-year-old female, presented with depression, difficulty with concentration, difficulty falling asleep, and short-temper. The diagnosis was Liver qi stagnation and Gallbladder/Heart disharmony. Wen Dan Tang (Warm the Gallbladder Decoction) and Shine were prescribed. Patient reported much improvement in symptoms. Submitted by S.F., Greenbrae, California.

* A 53-year-old female patient presented with anxiety, depression and pale complexion. The TCM diagnosis was blood and yin deficiencies with Liver qi stagnation, Kidney yin and yang deficiencies. Shine and Nourish, along with an iron supplement were prescribed. The patient noticed a change within the first ten days. Submitted by N.V., Muir Beach, California.

* J.C., a 57-year-old female, presented with nervousness, insomnia, and anxiety with a desire to stop smoking. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as Kidney yin deficiency with heat and Liver qi stagnation. The patient was given a combination of Nourish, Shine, and Calm. After six months, the patient reported improvement in sleep and was calmer overall. Submitted by K.F., Honolulu, Hawaii.

* L.W., a 22-year-old male, presented with septic facial acne and depression. The TCM diagnosis was damp-heat with Liver qi stagnation. After one week of taking Dermatrol (PS) and Shine, the acne was 80% resolved and the depression improving. The acne was gone in 28 days. Submitted by H.C., Stephens City, Virginia.

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Shine is designed to treat depression by using herbs with demonstrated effectiveness to elevate mood, alleviate stress, and increase energy.

Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati), commonly known as St. John's Wort, works primarily by increasing the level of serotonin and secondarily by inhibiting the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO).[3,4] Another study shows that hyperforin also has the effect of inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine.[5] One study using the Hamilton Depression Scale found Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) to be clinically effective in the treatment of depression with ratings close to a 70% treatment response.[6,7,8,9] In another study, the long-term intake of the herb for up to one year among 517 patients was deemed safe and effective, and especially suitable for relapse prevention.[10] According to a randomized, double-blind, comparative trial involving 149 outpatients, Guan Ye Jin Si Tao (Herba Hyperici Perforati) and Prozac (fluoxetine) demonstrated equivalent therapeutic effect for treatment of depression.[11] In another study with 1,757 patients, it was found to be significantly superior to placebo and similarly effective to antidepressant drugs.[12] Side effects are rare, with rash and photosensitivity being the most common.[14]

Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae) and He Huan Pi (Cortex Albiziae) are two other herbs in Shine that have also shown marked effects to treat depression. Use of Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae) is associated with marked antidepressant effects to reverse the harmful effects of chronic mild stress on mood and behaviors.[15] He Huan Pi (Cortex Albiziae) exerts its antidepressant effect via the 5-HT1A receptor system, with therapeutic effect comparable to Tofranil (imipramine).[16] Clinically, one study reported 81.8% rate of effectiveness in treating depression in 33 patients using an herbal formula that contained He Huan Pi (Cortex Albiziae) and Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii).[17]

Since stress is a main contributor of depression, many herbs are used in this formula to calm the patient and alleviate depression, such as Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri),[18] Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong),[19] Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae),[20] and Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi).[21] To improve sleep pattern and treat insomnia, Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae) is added for its sedative effect.[22] To improve and increase energy, Shen Qu (Massa Fermentata) is used to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, and Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) is added to gently stimulate the central nervous system and increase body metabolism.[23,24,25]

In summary, Shine is a great formula to treat depression and its associated symptoms.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Depression is an emotional disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The most commonly used drugs are the serotonin specific reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), such as Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Paxil (paroxetine). These drugs often require six to eight weeks before they exert their effect to lift depression, and are associated with a great number of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, weight loss, sexual dysfunction, and increased risk of suicide. Therefore, these drugs must be prescribed and monitored carefully.

[1] Muller WE, Schafer C er al., In-vitro-Studie uber Hypericum-Extrakt, Hyericin und Kampferol. DAZ 136(13):1015-1022.1996.

[2] PDR for Nutritional Supplements 1st Edition, Medical Economics, 2001.

[3] Bombardelli, E. et al. Fitoterapia; 66(1):43-68. 1995.

[4] Suzuki, O. et al. Planta Med; 2:272. 1984.

[5] Muller, WE et al., Hyperforin represents the neurotransmitter reuptake inhibiting constituent of Hypericum extract. Pharmacopsychiatry 1998 Jun;31 Suppl 1:16-21.

[6] Ernst, E. Fortschr Med; 113(25): 354-55. 1995.

[7] Mueller, W. et al. Deutsche Apotheker Zeitung; 136:17-22,24. Mar 28, 1996.

[8] DeSmet, P. et al. Br. Med J; 313:241-42. Aug 3, 1996.

[9] Harrer, G. et al. Phytomedicine; 1:3-8. 1994.

[10] Brattström A. Long-term effects of St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) treatment: a 1-year safety study in mild to moderate depression. Max Zeller Söhne Zeller AG, Seeblickstr. 4, CH-8590 Romanshorn, Switzerland. Phytomedicine. 2009 Apr;16(4):277-83.

[11] Harrer, G et al., Comparison of equivalence between the St. John’s Wort extract LoHyp-57 and fluoxetine. Arzneimittelforschung 1999 Apr;(4):289-96.

[12] Linde, K. et al. Br Med J; 313(7052):253-58. 1996.

[13] Behnke K, Jensen GS, Graubaum HJ, Gruenwald J. Hypericum perforatum versus fluoxetine in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. PhytoPharm Consulting, Institute for Phytopharmaceuticals, Berlin, Germany. Adv Ther. 2002 Jan-Feb;19(1):43-52.

[14] Muldner, VH. and Zoller, M. Arzneimittelforschung; 34:918. 1984.

[15] Hu Y, Liu P, Guo DH, Rahman K, Wang DX, Xie TT. Antidepressant effects of the extract YZ-50 from Polygala tenuifolia in chronic mild stress treated rats and its possible mechanisms. Dept. of Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy Care Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China. Pharm Biol. 2010 Jul;48(7):794-800.

[16] Kim JH, Kim SY, Lee SY, Jang CG. Antidepressant-like effects of Albizzia julibrissin in mice: involvement of the 5-HT1A receptor system. Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Republic of Korea. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2007 May;87(1):41-7.

[17] Zhong Yao Lin Chuan Xin Yong (New Clinical Applications of Chinese Medicine), 2001; 282.

[18] Zhong Yao Yao Li Yu Ying Yong (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Herbs), 1983; 888.

[19] Zhong Yao Yao Li Yu Ying Yong (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Herbs), 1983:123.

[20] Guo Wai Yi Xue Zhong Yi Zhong Yao Fen Ce (Monograph of Chinese Herbology from Foreign Medicine), 1985; 7(4):48.

[21] Zhong Guo Yao Ke Da Xue Xue Bao (Journal of University of Chinese Herbology), 1989; 20(1):48.

[22] Zhong Yao Yao Li Yu Ying Yong (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Herbs), 1983; 477.

[23] Zhong Yao Xue (Chinese Herbology), 1998; 436:437.

[24] Tyler, V. The New Honest Herbal. Philadelphia, PA: G.F. Stickley Co., 1987.

[25] Olin, R. et al. The Lawrence Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparison. Green Tea. May 1993.

In TCM, depression is characterized by stagnation of qi, blood, food, and phlegm. Therefore, optimal treatment requires use of herbs to relieve such stagnation. These same herbs have also been found to have an excellent effect to increase energy levels and lift depression. Generally speaking, most patients begin to benefit within approximately two weeks. Most importantly, these herbs are safe and natural, and are associated with few or no side effects.

Depression is an emotional disorder that should be addressed cautiously. Though use of drugs is effective, one must carefully evaluate the potential benefits versus risks. In comparison, herbs are also effective, and definitely much safer. Furthermore, in addition to drug or herbal therapies, counseling and behavior therapy should be initiated as they are extremely helpful toward long-term improvement. Lastly, exercise is also helpful as this increases one's inherent ability to deal with stress and depression.