Meet Karina Primelles | Founder of Xula Herbs & Herbalist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karina Primelles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karina, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?

In reflecting back on my entrepreneurial journey, I can say that achieving a healthy work-life balance has been challenging, but also a great learning experience. Initially, I found myself immersed in work, as starting your own business from scratch is tough. So I would often push my boundaries by working late nights and weekends, which eventually led to burnout. However, I’ve come to realize that while certain phases of business demand intense dedication, it’s crucial to prioritize balance.

After experiencing burnout (a few times lol), I’ve tried to be intentional when recalibrating my priorities. Recently, I prioritize nurturing relationships and self-care. I’ve established boundaries, refraining from work on weekends and aiming to wrap up by 7 pm daily. Also, living with my partner and our two cats, helps me stay present and accountable. All that said, I think that there are moments for balance and moments to push hard. It depends on your goals and how your body is feeling and is ultimately a deeply personal decision.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business is a tribute to the remarkable healing properties of plants. Initially focusing on combining cannabinoids with synergistic herbs to aid female reproductive health, we’ve expanded our range to include formulas designed to help individuals find their balance, from stress support to sleep support. Central to all our products is the belief that they must be felt, which led us to cultivate our own hemp, prioritize sourcing from farms that share our values, and develop unique extraction methods to help maximize their potency.

Having personally experienced burnout, I’ve spent the past year crafting products centered around adaptogens. I’m eager to witness how these offerings can support others, and have high hopes because of the transformative impact they’ve had on my own well-being.

Building my business hasn’t been without its challenges, but in retrospect these obstacles have also offered opportunities for growth. Given the challenges of selling products that are associated with cannabis, I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and staying true to my vision. Ultimately, I want the world to know that there is heart behind our products and that I will always prioritize their quality and their potency.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It’s really hard to narrow down choices when someone visits Los Angeles. However, if I were to plan an itinerary, one day could start with breakfast at Gjusta, followed by a hike in Topanga Canyon and lunch at Endless Color or a visit to the Inn of the Seventh Ray, which is a really unique spot.

Starting the day with a morning hike in Elysian Park followed by coffee at Canyon Coffee in Echo Park would also be ideal. Food is one of LA’s best things, and Jinsol Gukbap for Korean soups and broths in Koreatown is a must within all that LA has to offer. I would then take them to an artist-run art gallery such as Human Resources LA or JOAN. And I might end the day with trying to catch the sunset from Griffith Observatory, as I think it is one of the best views of the city.

Another day might begin with breakfast at SQIRL, followed by a walk though Los Feliz, including a stop at Skylight Books. I would then have a picnic at Barnsdall art park, which I feel is a semi hidden gem. Or grabbing tacos Tijuana style at “el chino” by Vermont and 1st could also be a solid option. In the afternoon, unwinding with a hot yoga session at Kinship in Highland Park would be a perfect way to end a really spectacular day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people! I’ve really been fortunate to have remarkable mentors, and Dr. Cofe Fiakpui definitely stands out. Over the past three years, I’ve been taking Dr. Cofe’s Traditional Chinese Medicine classes; his profound insights and knowledge have expanded my understanding of plant medicine and the connections between health, emotions, and the environment. His teachings significantly influence my current work, and I am deeply grateful for his guidance.

Dr. Cofe is not only a knowledgeable teacher but also treats people for rare viral conditions and parasitic infections. He has developed innovative applications within his practice that integrate various healing modalities, making him particularly successful in treating challenging conditions. His approach considers physical, emotional, energetic and environmental factors, which has significantly broadened my perspective on healing.

I am inspired by Dr. Cofe’s compassion and willingness to share his knowledge. He has taught me the importance of empathy and looking beyond conventional treatments for effective solutions. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn from Dr. Cofe, and I believe he deserves immense recognition for his practice.

Website: https://xulaherbs.com

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Image Credits
Gabriel Cabrera
Ada Navarro