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.

Learn More About The FREE Initial Consultation

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).

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Katrina's treatments are life changing. I highly recommend you making regular visits with her a part of your self care routine."

- Shani A.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"I can’t say enough about Katrina and her skills as an acupuncturist. I had major scoliosis surgery done 8yrs ago. Since then I have been suffering with daily pain in my SI joint area. I decided to try acupuncture to see if it could help. By my second appointment I was feeling like a different person. I literally had no pain in that area! Although I need to keep up with my treatment I can honestly say that was the first time I didn’t feel pain in years! I highly recommend seeing Katrina. She is a wealth of knowledge regarding Eastern medicine and it’s also an opportunity to relax and recharge in a soothing environment."

 

- Lisa L.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Choosing Karma Zen Acupuncture is one of the best decisions I have ever made! Kat is knowledgeable, has a calming presence, is easy to talk to, and really listens to her patients. After only four visits I have noticed vast improvements in my health. I highly recommend Kat and Karma Zen!"

 

- Diane L.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Katrina is professional and personable. She has treated me numerous times with great success. I find that she is very receptive to my thoughts and concerns. Her willingness to go the extra mile to make sure that I’m comfortable is greatly appreciated. I wouldn’t hesitate recommending her to my friends, family and colleagues."

 

- Michael B.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Highly recommend Katrina- she is extremely knowledgeable and very easy to talk to. I had a pinched nerve in my neck, it was hard for me to even turn my neck. After 6 treatments, I can now return to yoga and exercise classes. I have had acupuncture from others and she is by far the best."

 

- Beth H.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Kat is an outstanding Acupuncturist. Her technique and bed side manner is very warm. Kat treated me for low back and neck pain. After a couple of treatments, I was back to exercising sooner than usual. I know that her treatments made a huge difference in my quick recovery. I highly recommend Kat for any issue."

 

- Lisa P.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"I first came to Katrina at Karma Zen when my knee was badly injured. I received acupuncture for 2 months or so. Not only was my knee healed the experience was amazing for me! My ankle pain is gone my stress level went way down. I feel lighter with much more energy. Katrina has helped me and continues to help. I highly recommend KARMA ZEN!!"

 

- Jennifer R.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Katrina is great. I highly recommend Karma Zen Acupuncture! I no longer have back problems, my energy has returned, the swelling in my knee is gone, I’m sleeping better.. I could go on and on! Thank you Katrina."

 

- Cheryl W.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Dr. Giangarra is an amazing, PASSIONATE, healer that has helped me with migraines and insomnia. It took about 5 sessions with acupuncture and cupping, and now I am MUCH better. I highly recommend Karma Zen for ppl with headaches and sleep issues. You can thank me later!"

 

- Patricia L.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"It was about twenty-four hours after my first experience with Acupuncture to combat chronic allergies and rhinitis when noticed I hadn't sneezed in that amount of time.  She said it would help, and she knows what she's talking about and what she's doing!  Thanks, K!"

 

- Ned B.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Katrina is a wealth of information and compassion. I first visited her acupuncture studio on a recommendation from a friend. I had never tried acupuncture and cupping before, but a testy elbow problem had been keeping me up at night. More than relieving the pain associated with the elbow, I needed to get a good night’s sleep again! After my first treatment, the pain abated, and mobility and strength improved progressively week after week. I’d say by the third or fourth weekly session the elbow was a non-issue. I continue to go to Katrina at Karma Zen for general wellness. I always leave much calmer and more collected than when I arrive."

 

- Jen M.

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

"Kat is amazing! She has helped with a variety of different health issues I was having like pain and anxiety. Now I am feeling SO much better, my life has really transformed for the better and I really owe it to the treatments and Kat's attentive and geunine care."

-Kira R.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Katrina is an amazing healer. I always feel seen and heard by her. Overall my health has improved so much since I started ssing her. I fully trust her with my healthcare."

-Martha E.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Highly recommended!"

-Charles S.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Katrina is a caring and compassionate practitioner!"

-Ann L.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Serene atmosphere and great intuitional healer."

-Geno D.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Very gentle and caring."

-Nancy W.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Fantastic practitioner."

-Duncan F.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Professional, compassionate and effective care. Amazing staff. That is what you can expect when you visit Karma Zen Acupuncture. Highly recommended!"

-Todd, G.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Karma Zen Acupuncture is just like the name implies! Relaxing and healing. Kat is a wonderful practitioner. She is very knowledgeable and attentive. I highly recommend them!"

-Montserrat G.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Kat is such a wonderful acupuncturist, very knowledgable, and ensures you feel at ease with the treatments. I highly recommend Karma Zen Acupuncture!"

-Christal D.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"Terrific practice, terrific practitioner!"

-Michael J.

 

Personalized Care With Outstanding Results

 

 

 

"As somewhat of a  "newbie" to the practice I was not sure what to expect from the session(s). I am now months into my scheduled weekly sessions and can feel the positive effects from those. Originally, the minor to worse aches and pains (hips, back, shoulders) were my focus in the treatment plan that Katrina helped me with. Now those  aches are minimizing. What I didn't expect  was how I responded to how acupuncture in the mental side of therapy, a sort of energy and mental shifting treatment. I love  how it helps me handle stress, to relax, motivating me in my exercise regimens and overall, the calming effects it supports and promotes. Katrina is a gifted practioner and is awesome!!Thanks! Mike"

-Mike W.

 

Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.

Learn More About The FREE Initial Consultation

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.

Learn More About Acupuncture

Cupping

Promotes microcirculation, relieves tension, and helps release toxins.

Learn More About Cupping

Herbal Therapy

Transmits nature’s intelligence to heal damaged cells and tissues.

Learn More About Herbs

Gua Sha 

Breaks up scar tissue and connective tissue, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation.

Learn More About Gua Sha

Moxibustion

Promotes circulation, alleviates tension, and helps reduce inflammation and swelling.

Learn More About Moxibustion

Relaxation & Stress Reduction   Focus on calming the mind and emotions to maximize your body’s healing resources.

Learn More About Relaxation & Stress Reduction

Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.

Learn More About The FREE Initial Consultation

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

Learn More About Dr. Katrina

Calliope (aka Callie) Giangarra

Unofficial Mascot

Learn More About Callie

Esme (aka Ezzy or Ezzers) Giangarra

2nd Unofficial Mascot

Learn More About Esme

Your initial consultation is free. Come meet us in person and learn more.

Learn More About The FREE Initial Consultation

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.

Learn More About The FREE Initial Consultation

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).

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