It all began in 1985 when Richard Anderson and his herbalist friend White Crow went on a three month ‘wild salad expedition’ in the mountains of the Western U.S.A. and lived on a diet of only wild, fresh herbs. While camping in a meadow in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, they ate a combination of herbs that produced some surprising and unusual effects! After a time, they began passing what Richard defines as mucoid plaque. That experience over 40 years ago inspired him to create the Arise & Shine product line.
In 1996, Richard’s wife, Avona, had agreed to take over the management of Arise & Shine while Richard turned his attention to his research and writing. Years later, Avona acquired sole ownership of Arise & Shine under her company, Avalon Acres, Inc.
In 2024 Avona looked for a buyer who knew the importance of using only the highest quality herbs, probiotics and other ingredients in Richard’s formulations. She also needed someone who had the ability, experience, knowledge and willingness to preserve and maintain the integrity of the formulas as well as the qualifications to successfully run a company. Avona contacted Michael Schaeffer who is a well-known expert in the dietary supplement industry who had previously manufactured the Arise & Shine products back in the early 2000’s with the goal of having him acquire the company and continue the traditions started by Richard in the late 1980’s.
Michael Schaeffer’s journey into cleansing and detoxification began in 1988 when he joined a company that marketed dietary supplements to healthcare practitioners (medical doctors, osteopathic doctors, naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists, chiropractors, colon hydro therapists, etc.) After decades of self-education, this led him to collaborate with integrative and functional medical doctors and researchers to develop targeted products and protocols for specific digestive issues. At the same time, he helped build and operate a contract manufacturing company which helped create products for some of the top retail national brands in the digestive care category.
Michael Schaeffer’s passion for science and helping people with their health and wellness goals is the reason why he purchased Arise & Shine at the end of 2024. By preserving the history of the Arise & Shine cleansing formulations and incorporating new approaches in microbiome science with the re-introduction of the products that had been discontinued will become his story of personal transformation into professional leadership, turning his own past health crisis into a platform for helping others reclaim vitality through natural cleansing and holistic wellness.
Although your journey with us may not be as exotic as the one that Richard Anderson and his friend took in 1985, it will be much more comfortable. A complete intestinal cleanse sets the stage for the entire body to release toxic accumulations. Because your digestive system is the hub of your entire body, every cell, gland, tissue and organ is dependent upon it. Our company is here to help you create and maintain a healthier digestive environment.
Many Arise & Shine Cleansers have told us that as they cleansed, they have also released negative feelings and emotions. The most frequently reported experiences have been a profound sense of well-being, increased vitality, feeling “lighter” and greater clarity of mind. We applaud your willingness to take responsibility for your own health and well-being. We will be cheering you on, offering you support and hoping that you will receive the transformations you desire.