Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine developed over thousands of years ago in China and have withstood the test of time. Masters of Chinese herbology selected various herbs based on function and how they work together synergistically. Herbs simultaneously cure and strengthen the body. This dual action is unique to herbal medicine and makes it well suited to treat a patient’s underlying condition that can be contributing to their pain, stress, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and/or tension. Herbs transmits nature’s intelligence to help heal damaged cells and tissues. The brand of herbal formulas carried at Karma Zen Acupuncture, Evergreen Herbs, have been chosen for their safety, purity, and efficacy and are personally used by our acupuncturist. To determine the best herbal formula a person should consult a properly trained practitioner who is educated and has experience in herbology, like our acupuncturist.
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Herbal Medicine FAQ
How do Chinese herbal formulas differ from medications and individual supplements?
Herbal formulas are composed of natural ingredients instead of chemical components like most medications and many supplements. There are numerous Chinese herbs that are foods that can be incorporated as food therapy. Since herbal formulas are natural, there isn’t the risk of the multitude of adverse side effects as with many medications. As opposed to medications and individual supplements, which are designed to treat one specific biological function, Chinese herbal formulas were developed by combining specific herbs to work together synergistically to treat a person’s underlying condition. Herbal formulas treat the person and not just individual symptoms, making them extremely effective natural form of medicine.
Are herbal formula’s safe?
Herbal formulas are made of natural ingredients, making them safer than many medications without the multitude of adverse side effects. The herbal formulas carried by Karma Zen Acupuncture have been chosen for their quality, safety, and purity standards. The brand, Evergreen Herbs, that we carry here at Karma Zen Acupuncture follow safety processes and check to assure not just the safety and quality but also the clinical efficacy of their herbal formulas. The herbs are sourced from growers who routinely test the quality of the soil and water from contamination. Each batch of herbs is tested on average of 15 times from the time they are seeds until they reach the shelf. Tests include checking for pesticides, heavy metals, fungus, mold, and bacteria to ensure purity and safety standards. The company follows standards set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States FDA.
Are herbal formulas effective?
Herbal medicine is very effective especially when taken according to a practitioner’s instructions. Chinese herbal formulas don’t just mask symptoms like some conditions. Because herbal formulas were created with herbs that work together to treat a person’s underlying condition, they are an extremely effective form of natural medicine. Herbal formulas are helpful in treating a wide array of conditions including pain, insomnia, allergies, digestive issues, menopause, migraine headaches, common cold, and flu. Karma Zen Acupuncture carries herbs from the company Evergreen Herbs. Each of their medicinal-grade herbs are selected for their ample phyto-nutrients and medical potency. They careful extraction process used by Evergreen Herbs yields a more complete, finished product, creating better quality herbal formulas.
How is the appropriate herbal formula selected for my condition?
A personalized assessment is made for each patient by our acupuncturist to determine that person’s presenting pattern that is manifesting in the presenting symptoms. Since each herbal formula contains a specific combination of herbs to address a specific pattern, a formula is then selected based on that pattern to treat the underlying condition. The rational in selecting an herbal formula are based East Asian medical principles attributing to a person’s symptoms. Different people with the same presenting condition may have different patterns and require different herbal formulas. Because a person’s pattern can change, a person may require a different herbal formula than previously prescribed.
Do herbal formulas have the adverse side effects of medications?
Herbal formulas are natural and don’t have the multiple side effects as many medications. Not every herbal formula is best for everyone. Some herbal formulas may be contraindicated with certain conditions including pregnancy. It is recommended that before starting an herbal formula that a person consult a properly trained practitioner to determine the best formula for his or her condition.
How long do I need to take an herbal formula for?
The length of time a person needs to take an herbal formula depends on the condition being treated. Many herbal formulas are effective within a few days if taken as instructed, while others may take longer to work. Few herbal formulas are needed long term once a person’s presenting pattern has resolved. During your appointment, our acupuncturist can determine the best formula for you and determine the length of treatment needed with herbal therapy.
What are the different forms of herbal medicine?
Herbal formulas come in various formulas. While formulas can be made from raw herbs or herbal granules into teas, we at Karma Zen acupuncture currently carry herbal formulas that come in capsules from Evergreen Herbs. We find that the capsules are more convenient and easier to take. Because some herbal formulas can have an unpleasant taste, it is often easier to take herbal formula in the form of capsules. Also, our acupuncturist will make herbal recommendations as part of food therapy for patients when needed.
Do the herbal formulas carried by Karma Zen Acupuncture have a negative impact on the environment?
The herbal company carried by Karma Zen Acupuncture, Evergreen Herbs, is concerned with their impact on the environment. Evergreen herbs work towards producing herbal formulas that do not create unnecessary harm to the environment. Farmers are selected who follow Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) to help ensure sustainable farming practices for high quality Chinese herbs. After extraction of the raw material, certain herb dregs and left-over biomass are turned into organic fertilizer to reduce waste and promote re-use of valuable resources. Evergreen Herbs follows strict guidelines established by the Convention of Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to protect both plants and animals from extinction.
How can I learn more about how herbal medicine can help me?
You can contact us at info@karmazenacupuncture.com or 512-766-3049. You can also go to our online scheduler to book a FREE consultation and learn how herbal medicine can benefit you and help with your current problem. Dr. Katrina Giangarra, D.A.C.M., L.Ac., Dipl. O.M., can assess your condition and formulate a treatment plan specific to your needs. She can answer any questions and go over any concerns that you may have.
Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Your initial consultation is free. Talk with our Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medcine and learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
THIS STUFF WORKS.
Our unique blend of holistic medical therapies gets ALL your body's healing resources going in the same direction...
Acupuncture
Calms stress, clears neuroendocrine pathways, affects neurotransmitters, and promotes circulation.
Cupping
Promotes microcirculation, relieves tension, and helps release toxins.
Herbal Therapy
Transmits nature’s intelligence to heal damaged cells and tissues.
Gua Sha
Breaks up scar tissue and connective tissue, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation.
Moxibustion
Promotes circulation, alleviates tension, and helps reduce inflammation and swelling.
Relaxation & Stress Reduction Focus on calming the mind and emotions to maximize your body’s healing resources.
Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF IS PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO
You'll always feel welcome and cared for here.
Dr. Katrina Giangarra, DACM, L.Ac., Dipl. O.M.
Licensed Acupuncturist, Founder, & Clinic Director
Isabella (aka Izzy, aka Fluff Nugget) Giangarra
3rd Unofficial Mascot
Calliope (aka Callie) Giangarra
Unofficial Mascot
Esme (aka Ezzy or Ezzers) Giangarra
2nd Unofficial Mascot
Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).
Located in Spicewood
Karma Zen Acupuncture is located in a serene spot off of Highway-71 in the Bee Creek Business Park as part of the Bee Creek Clinic. Whether you live locally in Spicewood or in the surrounding areas of Briarcliff, Marble Falls, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Austin, or Dripping Springs, we are happy to provide a peaceful and relaxing environment as we help you on your path to better health. The location is a hidden gem as it’s great for those locally, not wanting to travel far, and for those wanting to escape from the more chaotic and busier areas.
Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.
Or, just call 512-766-3049 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
Read more about: Our Philosophy | Our History | Our Awesome Staff | Testimonials and Success Stories
* Individual results vary. No guarantee of specific results is warranted or implied and your results will depend on many factors (full disclaimer).