Best Dr. Greg Sperber Podcasts (2025)

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Ren Shen Bai Du San (Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences) 1:01:40

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16h ago1:01:40

1:01:40

In this episode, we will be looking at another Chinese herbal formula, Rén Shēn Bài Dú Sǎn or Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences. It is under the subcategory of formulas that release exterior disorders with interior deficiency and is useful for treating external attacks (colds) with underlying deficiency. We will doing our deep dive i…

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Zhi Mu (Anemarrhena Rhizome) 56:08

15d ago56:08

56:08

In this episode, we will be exploring another interesting and common Chinese herb: zhī mǔ, Anemarrhenae Rhizoma or Anemarrhena Rhizome. This herb is in the Chinese medical subcategory of herbs that drain fire under the category of herbs that clear heat. This is a commonly used herb for cooling heat while also generating yin and fluids to moisten dr…

1
Vasaka (Justicia adhatoda) 56:50

29d ago56:50

56:50

This episode will be looking at another herb of the world: Vasaka, Justicia adhatoda, or malabar nut. This is a relatively well known Ayurvedic herb used for over 2,000 years and is used primarily for respiratory complaints, though different preparations are used for other applications. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at…

1
Chan Tui (Cicada Molting) 48:46

2M ago48:46

48:46

This episode will be looking at another single Chinese “herb:” chán tuì, Cicadae Periostracum, or cicada molting. This substance is in the Chinese medical sub-category of cool, acrid herbs that release the exterior. It has several interesting functions such as venting rashes, clearing the eyes, and stopping spasms. As usual, we will explore all the…

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Sang Ju Yin (Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Drink) 1:00:53

2M ago1:00:53

1:00:53

This episode will be looking at another Chinese herbal formula: Sāng Jú Yǐn or Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Drink. This is from the formulas that release exterior wind-heat subcategory. It is a useful formula for treating early stage colds with a cough. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb formula and look at its traditional uses, …

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Qiang Huo (Notopterygium Root) 53:55

2M ago53:55

53:55

This episode will be exploring another interesting Chinese herb: qiāng huó, Notopterygii Rhizoma seu Radix, or notopterygium root. This herb is in the Chinese medical subcategory of warm, acrid herbs that release the exterior under the category of release the exterior herbs. It is helpful for certain types of colds and especially for alleviating pa…

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Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) 58:00

3M ago58:00

58:00

This episode will be looking at another herb of the world: saw palmetto or Serenoa repens. This is a well known herb used for over 2,000 years and has a modern reputation for treating prostatic hyperplasia or enlarged prostate. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, an…

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Shi Gao (Gypsum) 54:27

3M ago54:27

54:27

This episode we are going to be looking at another single Chinese herb: shí gāo, Gypsum fibrosum, or just gypsum. This herb is in the Chinese medical sub-category of herbs that drain fire and is among the coldest herbs in the pharmacopeia. It is useful both internally to cool various heat conditions as well as topically in many dermatological condi…

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Ge Gen Tang (Kudzu Decoction) 58:57

4M ago58:57

58:57

This episode will be looking at another Chinese herbal formula: Gé Gēn Tāng or Kudzu Decoction. This is from the formulas that release exterior wind-cold subcategory of the formulas that release the exterior category. It is a useful formula for treating colds with a stiff neck and upper back. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and l…

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Niu Bang Zi (Great Burdock Fruit) 50:26

4M ago50:26

50:26

This episode will be exploring another interesting Chinese herb: niú bàng zǐ, Arctii Fructus, or great burdock fruit. This herb is in the Chinese medical subcategory of cool, acrid herbs that release the exterior under the category of release the exterior herbs. It is helpful for certain types of colds, sore throats, and, as a seed, can help consti…

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Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) 55:18

5M ago55:18

55:18

This episode will be looking at another interesting traditional herb of the world: lemon balm or Melissa officinalis. This is a relatively well known medicinal and culinary herb with some very interesting traditional uses. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cau…

1
Zi Su Ye (Perilla Leaf) 55:17

5M ago55:17

55:17

This episode we will be looking at another Chinese herb: zǐ sū yè, Perillae Folium, or simply perilla leaf. This is another herb in the Chinese medical sub-category of warm, acrid herbs that release the exterior and can be used to calm a fetus and help seafood poisoning. In fact, you are probably aware of this herb even you have never heard of it b…

1
Cong Chi Tang (Scallion and Prepared Soybean Decoction) 56:09

6M ago56:09

56:09

This episode we will be looking at another Chinese herbal formula, in fact we are going to look at probably the first formula most of us learn in school: Cōng Chǐ Tāng or Scallion and Prepared Soybean Decoction. This is a mild formula for releasing the exterior and may be easily created in most kitchens without any major herbal inventory. As always…

1
Xi Xin (Asarum) 57:56

6M ago57:56

57:56

This episode we will be exploring another interesting Chinese herb: xì xīn, Asari Herba, or asarum or Chinese wild ginger. This herb is in the Chinese medical subcategory of warm, acrid herbs that release the exterior under the category of release the exterior herbs. It can be an important herb in certain circumstances, especially as a potential su…

1
Blond Psyllium (Plantago ovata) 51:30

6M ago51:30

51:30

This episode will be looking at another interesting traditional herb of the world: Plantago ovata (Blond Psyllium), a great source of fiber, but can it help diabetes and cholesterol? We are going to find out! As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions. And, as…

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Jing Jie (Schizonepeta) 48:38

7M ago48:38

48:38

This episode will be exploring another single Chinese herb: jīng jiè, Schizonepetae Herba, or schizonepeta. This herb is a relatively commonly used herb in the Chinese medical sub-category of warm, acrid herbs that release the exterior and can be used in colds, rashes, and even to help stop bleeding. As usual, we will explore all the intricacies of…

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Gan Cao Gan Jiang Fu Ling Bai Zhu Tang (Licorice, Ginger, Poria, and White Atractylodes Decoction) 54:20

7M ago54:20

54:20

This episode will be looking at another traditional Chinese formula: Gān Cǎo Gān Jiāng Fú Líng Bái Zhú Tāng or Licorice, Ginger, Poria, and White Atractylodes Decoction. This is a formula that warms the spleen and overcomes dampness and is in the sub-category of formulas that warm and transform water and dampness under the category of formulas that…

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Da Huang (Rhubarb Root) 58:37

8M ago58:37

58:37

This episode will be looking at another important and interesting traditional Chinese herb: dà huáng, Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, or rhubarb root or rhizome. This herb is a relatively commonly used herb in the Chinese medical subcategory of purgatives under the category of downward draining herbs and can be used in a wide variety of conditions. And as u…

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Boswellia serrata (Indian Frankincense) 55:03

8M ago55:03

55:03

This episode will be looking at another traditional herb of the world: Boswellia serrata or Indian frankincense, an important Ayurvedic herb for treating inflammation and other conditions. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at its traditional uses, does it have any Chinese medical functions, and its preparation, interaction…

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Gou Teng (Uncaria) 49:27

9M ago49:27

49:27

In this episode, we will be exploring an interesting Chinese herb gōu téng, Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis, or uncaria. This herb is a relatively commonly used herb in the Chinese medical category of substances that extinguish wind and stop tremors and can be used in a wide variety of conditions including spasms and convulsions, headache, irritability,…

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Huang Lian E Jiao Tang (Coptis and Ass-Hide Gelatin Decoction) 57:12

10M ago57:12

57:12

This episode covers the covers an interesting Chinese herbal formula, huang lian e jiao tang (coptis and ass-hide gelatin decoction). This is, relatively, not so commonly used, at least in my experience, formula for treating irritability, insomnia, and palpitations with a sensation of heat in the chest. Could this formula be of help in anxiety cond…

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Chi Shi Zhi (Halloysite or Kaolin) 52:46

10M ago52:46

52:46

This episode covers the Chinese "herb" chi shi zhi, Halloysitum rubrum, or red halloysite or kaolin. This mineral is in the Chinese medical category of herbs that stabilize and bind and can be used in a wide variety of conditions including chronic diarrhea, uterine bleeding, and chronic sores. And, as usual, we will explore all the intricacies of t…

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Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) 50:21

11M ago50:21

50:21

This episode covers an herb of the world: horseradish or Armoracia rusticana, which is, of course an herb and a food. It has been used for over 2,000 years for respiratory and urinary issues as well as for culinary purposes. We are going to explore all of these aspects. And, as usual, we will explore all the intricacies of this herb as well as an e…

1
Ba Ji Tian (Morinda root) 53:36

12M ago53:36

53:36

This episode covers the Chinese herb Ba Ji Tian or Morinda root, Morindae officinalis Radix. This is a yang tonifying herb which can also strengthen the sinews, and expel wind-dampness. As usual, we will explore all the intricacies of this herb as well as an explanation of its category. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a s…

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Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin (Universal Benefit Drink to Eliminate Toxin) 59:39

1y ago59:39

59:39

This episode covers an interesting Chinese herbal formula, Pu Ji Xiao Du Yin or Universal Benefit Drink to Eliminate Toxin. This is a not so commonly used, at least in my experience, formula for treating illnesses and epidemics, especially something called “acute, massive febrile disorder of the head.” Could this formula be of help in COVID? Or may…

1
Tao Ren (Persicae Semen) 56:19

1y ago56:19

56:19

This episode covers the useful Chinese herb Tao Ren or Persicae Semen. This herb is used in Chinese medicine to regulate or “move” the blood which can be used in a wide variety of conditions including menstrual disorders, traumatic injuries, and different types of pain. –Plus, as a seed, it can moisten the intestines and unblock the bowels Each epi…

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Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) 50:16

1y ago50:16

50:16

This episode covers the herb Chamomile or Matricaria chamomilla, a very commonly used herb for relaxation and to help sleep. But are there any concerns or other uses for this herb? We are going to find out! Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including categor…

1
Ju Hong (Red Tangerine Peel) 58:47

1y ago58:47

58:47

This episode covers the herb Ju Hong, red tangerine peel or Citri reticulatae Exocarpium rubrum, a qi regulating herb who’s strength actually lies in its ability to treat phelgm damp coughs and vomiting and belching Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology includin…

1
Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang (Pinellia Decoction to Drain the Epigastrium) 1:00:23

1y ago1:00:23

1:00:23

This episode covers the Chinese formula Ban Xia Xie Xin Tang, or Pinellia Decoction to Drain the Epigastrium. This is a really interesting and relatively commonly used formula in one of the most important Chinese formula categories: formulas that harmonize. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides…

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Fu lIng (Poria) 1:04:55

1+ y ago1:04:55

1:04:55

This episode covers the herb Fu ling, Poria cocos, or simply poria. This herb is one of the most commonly used Chinese herbs, though for most people outside of Chinese medicine, it is virtually unknown. It promotes urination and drains dampness…basically it is often considered an herbal diuretic. Plus, it also helps digestion and quiets the heart a…

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Apple of Sodom (Calotropis) 1:00:21

1+ y ago1:00:21

1:00:21

This episode covers the herb Apple of Sodom or Calotropis procera. This herb is very interesting in that it has potentially biblical origins, is thought to be quite toxic, and yet has some interesting medicinal properties. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology i…

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Mi Meng Hua (Buddleia Flower Bud) 55:15

1+ y ago55:15

55:15

This episode will cover another Chinese herb Mi Meng Hua (Buddleia flower bud). Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb. And then there is always something a little quirky about an episode. I…

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Supporting and Releasing Formulas 1:00:18

1+ y ago1:00:18

1:00:18

This episode will cover one of the traditional categories of formulas, Supporting and Releasing Formulas. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including the formulas in the category, and common functions, we will explore the science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of the category of formulas. And then there is al…

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Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia or Siler Root) 1:00:29

1+ y ago1:00:29

1:00:29

This episode covers the Chinese herb Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia or Siler Root), used to treat bones and sinews as well as yang vacuity. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb. And then there i…

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Eremophila longifolia 52:51

1+ y ago52:51

52:51

This episode covers the Australian herb Eremophila longifolia commonly known as berrigan. This Aboriginal herb is something I know very little about and am super excited for you to join me on a journey to learn about it. As usual, we will go into great depth about it covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explor…

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Gu Sui Bu (Drynaria Rhizome) 55:16

2y ago55:16

55:16

This episode covers the Chinese herb Gu Sui Bu (Drynaria Rhizome), used to treat bones and sinews as well as yang vacuity. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb. And then there is always so…

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Da Qing Long Tang (Major Bluegreen Dragon Decoction) 1:04:49

2y ago1:04:49

1:04:49

This episode covers the Chinese herb formula Da Qing Long Tang (Major Bluegreen Dragon Decoction). This is another formula that does two almost opposite things: helps exterior cold while clearing interior heat. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmaco…

1
Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit) 1:02:56

2y ago1:02:56

1:02:56

This episode covers the Chinese herb Wu Wei Zi (Schisandra Fruit). This is a relatively commonly used Chinese herb. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions. And then there is always something a little quirky abou…

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Sumac (Rhus coriaria) 56:54

2y ago56:54

56:54

This episode covers the herb Sumac. This is a delicious middle eastern and African spice, but does it have medicinal properties? Spoiler alert: it does have medicinal properties and we are going to explore them with our usual thoroughness. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quali…

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Formulas that Release Exterior Wind-Cold 56:47

2y ago56:47

56:47

This episode covers one of the traditional categories of formulas, Formulas that Release Exterior Wind-Cold. These formulas are incredibly important for treating specific types the everyday cold and flu. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including the formulas in the category, and common functions, we will explore the science, pharma…

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Bei Mu Gua Lou San (Fritillaria and Trichosanthis Fruit Powder) 56:35

2y ago56:35

56:35

This episode covers the Chinese formula Bei Mu Gua Lou San (Fritillaria and Trichosanthis Fruit Powder). This formula transforms phlegm by treating qi and helping the organs to do their proper jobs, while also moistening. As usual, we will go into depth about the formula. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and func…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 53 - Lian Qiao (Forsythia Fruit) 59:47

2y ago59:47

59:47

Today, we are going to be looking at another Chinese herb: Lian Qiao, Forsythia Fruit. This is a very commonly used Chinese herbs especially for treating colds. Or at least certain types of colds, which we are going to discuss in the episode. And as always, we will look at something a little different…Today we are looking at one of my "soapbox topi…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 52 - Curry Tree (Murraya koenigii) 46:16

2y ago46:16

46:16

This episode covers the herb Curry Tree or Murraya koenigii. We will be discussing the medicinal as well as the culinary uses of this Ayurvedic herb. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. We cover the basics of herbology, and explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potent…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 51 - Cang Er Cao (Xanthium Herb) 51:39

2y ago51:39

51:39

Today, we are going to be looking at another Chinese herb: cang er cao, xanthium or cockleburr. If this sounds familiar, we have discussed cang er zi or xanthium fruit when we discussed the formula cang er zi san or xanthium powder. That formula used the fruit of this plant, in this episode we will discuss the whole plant. Is there a difference in …

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 50 - Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Stasis from the Mansion of Blood Decoction). 1:01:24

2y ago1:01:24

1:01:24

This episode is quite a special one: it is our 50th episode! We will be covering a very interesting, and one of my favorite, formulas: xue fu zhu yu tang or drive out stasis from the mansion of blood decoction. This is a great formula for pain in the chest and I frequently use a modification for treating low back pain in many of my patients. We wil…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 49 - Dan Dou Chi (Prepared Soybean) 1:02:27

2+ y ago1:02:27

1:02:27

This episode covers the Chinese herb Dan Dou Chi (Prepared Soybean). This is not only a relatively common herb, it is also a very common food. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb. And the…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 48 - Valerian 1:03:46

2+ y ago1:03:46

1:03:46

This episode covers the common herb Valerian. This is common and ancient herb with a good amount of scientific evidence. As usual, we will cover the basics of Valerian including its category, functions, history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions. And then there is always something a little quirky about an epis…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 47 - Yin Yang Huo (Epimedi) 1:00:51

2+ y ago1:00:51

1:00:51

This episode covers the Chinese herb Yin Yang Huo (Epimedi). This is one of my favorite Chinese herbs: yín yáng huò or epimedium. The origin story for this herb gives the fifth grader in me giggles. Despite that, this is a very interesting, powerful, and useful herb. And as always, we will look at something a little different…today, we will look at…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 46 - Fang Feng Tong Sheng San (Saposhnikovia Powder that Sagely Unblocks) 1:05:46

2+ y ago1:05:46

1:05:46

This episode covers the Chinese formula Fang Feng Tong Sheng San (Saposhnikovia Powder that Sagely Unblocks). This is an interesting formula that both releases the exterior and purges the interior. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of Chinese herbology including category…

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Sperb’s Herbs Ep 45 - Zhu Sha (Cinnabar) 59:20

2+ y ago59:20

59:20

This episode covers a historically, if not currently, important herb with ramifications in alchemy and the basis of chemistry: Zhu Sha (Cinnabar). Each episode covers another traditional herb from somewhere in the world and goes into great depth about it. Besides covering the basics of the herb including its traditional use and functions, we will e…