Abalone Shell
Abalone Shell (Shi Jue Ming): A Calming Herb for Liver Fire, Eye Health, and Rising Yang
Introduction
Abalone shell, known as Shi Jue Ming (石决明) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a mineral-based herb used to anchor rising Liver yang, clear Liver fire, and brighten the eyes. With its cooling and heavy nature, it is particularly effective for treating headaches, dizziness, red eyes, and visual disturbances. It is often included in formulas for hypertension, eye strain, and stress-related tension.
What Is Abalone Shell?
Shi Jue Ming is the inner shell of the abalone mollusk (Haliotis species), cleaned and ground for medicinal use. In TCM, it is classified as salty and cold, and it enters the Liver and Kidney meridians. Traditionally, it is used to calm the Liver, subdue yang, and clear fire from the upper body. Its association with vision and internal wind makes it ideal for addressing heat and tension that ascend to the head and eyes.
Health Benefits of Abalone Shell
Calms the Liver and Anchors Rising Yang
Used to relieve symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and hypertension due to Liver yang rising.
Clears Liver Fire and Brightens the Eyes
Helpful for red, swollen, or painful eyes, blurred vision, or excessive tearing from internal heat.
Cools Heat and Calms Internal Wind
Used for tremors, convulsions, or spasms caused by internal wind and heat.
Supports Vision in Chronic Eye Conditions
Common in formulas for eye degeneration or strain due to aging or prolonged screen use.
Provides Mineral Nourishment to Yin and Essence
As a shell-derived substance, it supports grounding and nourishment to help contain scattered yang.
How to Use Abalone Shell
In Decoctions for Eye or Liver Heat Conditions
Use 15–30 grams, crushed or pre-decocted, boiled for 30–60 minutes before adding other herbs. Often paired with Gou Teng, Ju Hua, or Zhen Zhu Mu.
In Eye or Liver-Calming Formulas
Found in formulas like Tian Ma Gou Teng Yin or Ling Jiao Gou Teng Tang for dizziness and heat symptoms.
In Powder Form for Tonic Use
Ground into a fine powder and mixed into pills or capsules for chronic eye health support.
Where to Buy Abalone Shell
You can find Shi Jue Ming at the following places:
- Chinese herbal medicine shops
- Mineral medicine sections of TCM apothecaries
- Online retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or TCM-specific sites
Look for:
- Cleaned, naturally iridescent pieces or coarse granules
- Sulfur-free and ethically sourced from clean ocean waters
- Pre-crushed or powdered for easier preparation
Are There Any Side Effects?
Abalone shell is generally safe but should be used with caution in individuals with cold digestion or weak Spleen qi. Overuse may lead to digestive discomfort or bloating. It should be avoided during pregnancy unless prescribed by a professional.
Conclusion
Abalone shell, or Shi Jue Ming, is a cooling and stabilizing mineral herb in TCM that anchors rising Liver yang, clears eye heat, and supports vision. Whether for headaches, hypertension, or visual strain, its grounding energy offers clarity and calm where heat and tension ascend.
FAQs
Can I take abalone shell every day?
Yes, in small doses for chronic eye support or yang-anchoring purposes, under professional guidance.
What does abalone shell taste like?
It has a salty, mineral flavor and is usually decocted or powdered rather than tasted directly.
Is abalone shell safe for children?
It may be used in pediatric formulas for eye or seizure conditions, always under practitioner supervision.