What are the medicinal properties and effects of seashells?
Under normal circumstances, the medicinal properties and effects of seashells include regulating acid-base balance, calcium supplementation, digestive system health, calming the mind and relieving shock, and soothing the liver to subdue hyperactive yang. Specific details are as follows:

1. Regulation of Acid-Base Balance
Seashells contain chemical components such as calcium carbonate, which can help regulate the body's acid-base balance. They have traditionally been used in some traditional Chinese medicine or folk remedies to adjust internal pH levels.
2. Calcium Supplementation
Seashells are a natural source of calcium, rich in minerals like calcium carbonate, helping to supplement the calcium required by the human body and supporting bone growth and skeletal health.
3. Digestive System Health
In certain traditional Chinese medicine practices or folk therapies, seashells are used to regulate the digestive system and may help alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort and improve digestive function.

4. Calming the Mind and Relieving Shock
Seashells have a calming effect that helps soothe the nerves and relieve restlessness. They can improve sleep quality and are beneficial for conditions such as insomnia, vivid dreams, or frequent night awakenings.
5. Soothing the Liver and Subduing Hyperactive Yang
Seashells are salty, cold in nature, and heavy in texture, primarily exerting an effect of soothing the liver and subduing hyperactive yang. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as excessive liver yang or dizziness and vertigo. They can be used alone or in combination with other herbs, typically yielding good therapeutic results.
It must be emphasized that medication use should follow the advice of doctors or healthcare professionals, with strict dosage control to avoid potential side effects from overuse.