Speaker: Michael Tierra. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Shen corresponds to our psycho-spiritual being.  It generally translates as spirit, consciousness, mental awareness and vitality.  TCM states that there is a correlation between behavior and diet, and herbs are considered special foods to restore the proper balance and harmony of Shen in the individual.  Symptoms of the various causes of Shen imbalance are given and Chinese herbal formulas for correcting these imbalances are listed.   The major herbs include reishi mushroom, Polygala, Albizzia, Polygonum multiflorum and Aralia. Minerals used for therapeutic benefit include oyster shell, pearl, dragon bone and amber.