Herbal Medicine Sourcing & Safety

At Card Integrative Acupuncture, we view Herbal Medicine as the "Internal Medicine" of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). While acupuncture works to balance the body’s energy from the outside, herbs work from the inside to nourish, strengthen, and resolve deep-seated imbalances. However, we understand that for our Austin patients, the most important question isn't just *if* herbs work, but *where* they come from and if they are safe.

In an era where the supplement market is largely unregulated, Dr. Ashley Card is committed to the highest standards of Herbal Medicine safety and sourcing. We do not use "grocery store" supplements. We provide professional-grade, pharmacy-level herbal formulas that are rigorously tested for purity and potency.

What is Chinese Herbal Medicine?

Chinese Herbal Medicine is a sophisticated system of healing that has evolved over 3,000 years. Unlike Western herbalism, which often uses single herbs for specific symptoms (like Valerian for sleep), TCM utilizes complex formulas—carefully balanced combinations of plants, minerals, and seeds that work synergistically.

A well-crafted formula is designed to treat your "Root" cause while also managing your "Branch" (symptoms). By combining herbs, we can increase efficacy while minimizing potential side effects, creating a customized internal treatment that evolves as your health improves.

Why Professional Sourcing Matters

The quality of a plant depends on where it was grown, when it was harvested, and how it was processed. For the Austin health community, we prioritize transparency in our supply chain. Our herbs are sourced using the "Dao Di" principle—meaning they are grown in their authentic, indigenous regions where the soil and climate produce the most potent medicinal properties.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

Herbal medicine is powerful. Because herbs can interact with prescription medications or affect existing health conditions, they should never be "self-prescribed" from the internet. At Card Integrative Acupuncture, your safety is our first priority.

• Expert Consultation: Dr. Ashley Card, DACOM, LAc, has undergone years of intensive training in herbal pharmacology, including herb-drug interactions.
• Personalized Diagnosis: Your formula is chosen based on a clinical TCM diagnosis unique to your body’s constitution.
• Medication Review: We perform a thorough review of your current medications and supplements to ensure there are no contraindications.
• Ongoing Monitoring: As your symptoms change in the Austin cedar fever season or during stressful work cycles, we adjust your formula to match your body's current state.

Are Chinese herbs safe for everyone?

When prescribed by a licensed professional, Chinese herbs are remarkably safe. However, certain herbs are avoided during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or before surgery. This is why a professional consultation is mandatory before starting any herbal regimen at our Austin clinic.

How are the herbs administered?

Modern herbal medicine has moved beyond the traditional "smelly tea" boiled on a stove. We primarily use granules (concentrated powders) or capsules. Granules are easily dissolved in warm water and offer the most customization, while capsules provide convenience for our busy Austin patients on the go.