Personalized herbal formulas, prescribed and modified by licensed herbalists at AKARA. We use professional-grade ingredients tested for safety, purity, and consistency.
Chinese herbal medicine is a system of plant, mineral, and food-based formulas that have been used for centuries to address patterns of imbalance in the body. Formulas are never one-size-fits-all. We select or modify them based on your full presentation, including digestion, sleep, temperature regulation, stress level, and constitution.
Most patients take their formulas as granules dissolved in hot water or as capsules. We choose the format based on what is most effective for your pattern and what fits realistically into your daily routine.
Herbal medicine works alongside acupuncture to extend the effects of treatment between sessions. Strong areas include:
Your herbal prescription is built around your unique presentation. Expect adjustments as your body changes.
We assess your full pattern, including pulse, tongue, and detailed questions about digestion, sleep, energy, and stress.
We select or modify a formula specifically for your pattern. Stock formulas are starting points, not final answers.
Most formulas are taken as granules in hot water or as capsules. We choose the format that fits your routine.
Formulas are adjusted as your body responds. Some patients take herbs short-term for an acute concern. Others use periodic ongoing support.
We use formulas tested for safety, purity, and consistency. No bulk-store herbs and no untested suppliers.
We check for potential interactions with prescription medications and existing conditions before prescribing.
Your formula evolves with your body. We reassess regularly and modify rather than keeping you on the same prescription forever.
Common areas where herbal medicine offers strong support include digestion and gut health, hormonal regulation, sleep and stress, immune resilience, chronic inflammation, and recovery from illness. It works especially well alongside acupuncture.
Yes. We use high-quality, professional-grade formulas tested for safety, purity, and consistency. As an integrative practice, we also screen for potential interactions with prescription medications and existing conditions before prescribing.
We take a conservative approach and typically avoid prescribing herbal formulas during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We focus on acupuncture, which is a gentle and effective way to support your body during this time. If herbal support may be appropriate, we assess on a case-by-case basis.
No. Some patients use herbs short-term for an acute concern. Others benefit from periodic ongoing support depending on their goals. Formulas are reassessed and adjusted as your body changes.
Most patients take their formulas as granules dissolved in hot water or as capsules. We choose the format based on what is most effective for your pattern and most realistic for your daily routine.
More questions? See our full FAQ or contact us.
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977 Valencia Street, in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission. Easy walking distance from 24th Street BART, Dolores Park, and the Castro.
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