Sperb's Herbs Podcast

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 into this formula. And while we usually do a “little something different,” there is just so much to discuss about this important formula, there isn’t time to add anything else… Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we don our spacesuits, do a spacewalk, and enter the unexplored space of medicinal herbs in this exciting episode exploring Rén Shēn Bài Dú Sǎn or Ginseng Powder to Overcome Pathogenic Influences!

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 dryness. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions and see if the science supports its use. And as usual, we will be exploring something a little different…In this case, we will be discussing another Chinese herbal legend about our herb.  Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us for this journey to the center of herby goodness by exploring zhī mǔ, Anemarrhenae Rhizoma or Anemarrhena Rhizome!

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 its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions and see if the science supports its use. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different… we are going to look at the similarities and differences between Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal medicine Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us, it is going to be another intriguing episode as we look at Vasaka, Justicia adhatoda, or malabar nut!

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 intricacies of this substance as well as an explanation of its category. And as always, we will look at something a little different…we are going to take a sneak peek at the Five Elements of Acupuncture Medical Ethics. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us, it is going to be another intriguing episode as we look at chán tuì, Cicadae Periostracum, or cicada molting!

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, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…we are going to introduce the concept of mandatory reporting.  Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us, it is going to be another interesting vacation into the exciting continent of herbs as we look at Sāng Jú Yǐn or Mulberry Leaf and Chrysanthemum Drink!

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 pain and unblocking painful obstructions in many conditions such as some types of arthritis. And as usual, we will be exploring something a little different…we are going to discuss the very common condition of arthritis. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us, it is going to be another interesting rocket ship into the exciting solar system of herbs as we look at qiāng huó, Notopterygii Rhizoma seu Radix, or notopterygium!

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, and cautions and see if the science supports its use. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…We are going to revisit artificial intelligence and see if it is any better at giving us good information on herbs. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us, it is going to be another interesting rocket ship into the exciting solar system of herbs as we look at saw palmetto or Serenoa repens!

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 conditions. As usual, we will explore all the intricacies of this herb as well as an explanation of its category. And as always, we will look at something a little different…we are going to discuss some basic pharmacology. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us for this intriguing episode as we look at shí gāo, Gypsum fibrosum, or gypsum!

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 look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…an introduction to macronutrients. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at Gé Gēn Tāng or Kudzu Decoction. It is going to be another interesting vacation into the exciting continent of herbs…please join us!

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 constipation. And as always, we will look at something a little different…we are going to take a brief look at some basic botany. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at niú bàng zǐ, Arctii Fructus, or great burdock fruit. Please take the red pill and join us in learning about this fascinating herb!

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 cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…We are going to look at hormones and how they work on the body Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at lemon balm or Melissa officinalis. It is going to be another interesting trek into the exciting universe of herbs…please join us!

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 before, especially if you eat sushi. As usual, we will explore all the intricacies of this herb as well as an explanation of its category. And as always, we will look at something a little different…we will continue our discussion of pharmacognosy with a conversation about tannins Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at zǐ sū yè, Perillae Folium, aka perilla leaf. It is going to be another interesting trek into the exciting universe of herbs…please join us!

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, we will do our deep dive into this herb formula and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…we will be looking at pharmacognosy and several glycosides Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at Cōng Chǐ Tāng or Scallion and Prepared Soybean Decoction. It is going to be another interesting trek into the exciting universe of herbs…please join us!

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 substitute for some of the functions of the banned ma huang or ephedra…but is it safe? Is it readily available? We are going to find out! And as usual, we will be exploring something a little different…treating hypertension Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at xì xīn, Asari Herba, or asarum or Chinese wild ginger. It is going to be another interesting trek into the exciting universe of herbs…please join us!

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 usual, we will be adding something a little different…We are going to discuss cannabis and how it acts on the body.  Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at Plantago ovata or Blond Psyllium. It is going to be another interesting trek into the exciting universe of herbs…please join us!

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 this herb as well as an explanation of its category. And as always, we will look at something a little different…Today we are going to look at diabetes from both biomedical and Chinese medical points of view. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we undertake another interesting expedition into the exciting universe of herbs exploring jīng jiè, Schizonepetae Herba, or schizonepeta!

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 expel dampness. As always, we will do our deep dive into this herb formula and look at its traditional uses, and its preparation, interactions, and cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…we are going to talk about mandatory reporting. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we undertake another interesting expedition into the exciting universe of herbs exploring Gan Cao Gan Jiang Fu Ling Bai Zhu Tang or Licorice, Ginger, Poria, and White Atractylodes Decoction!

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 usual, we will be exploring something a little different…today, because there is so much commentary on this herb, we are doing something even more different: not discussing something a little different. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at dà huáng, Rhei Radix et Rhizoma, or rhubarb root or rhizome. It is going to be another interesting and important journey into the depths of the forest of herbdom…please keep listening!

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, interactions, and cautions. And, as usual, we will be adding something a little different…well actually maybe a lot different…as herbalists (and practitioners in general), we run businesses and writing a business plan is the most important thing to do to ensure or continue success...So we are going to look at business planning excuses. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please join us as we look at Boswellia serrata or Indian Frankincense. It is going to be another interesting sojourn into the depths of herbdom…please keep listening!

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, and even hypertension. And as usual, we will be exploring something a little different…we are going to continue our discussion about macrominerals by looking at sodium, chloride, and magnesium. Each episode of the podcast will go into great depth about a single herb or formula. Besides covering the basics of herbology including category, and functions, we will explore the history, quality, science, pharmacology, evidence, and any potential interactions of each herb or formula. Please stay tuned for this intriguing episode, as we explore gōu téng, Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis, or uncaria!