Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine

Can everyday lifestyle choices help support the body’s defenses against cancer? In this episode, Dr. Li Zheng, licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, and Dr. Greg Alpert, board-certified family medicine physician, bring Eastern and Western medicine together to discuss cancer prevention, immune health, inflammation, diet, sleep, and the growing interest in medicinal mushrooms. They explore mushrooms...

Can chrysanthemum support healthier skin and help calm inflammation? In this episode, Dr. Greg Alpert of Boca Direct MD and Dr. Li Zheng, Chinese acupuncturist and herbalist, discuss the traditional and researched uses of chrysanthemum for skin health, including its potential role in supporting people with rosacea and other inflammation-related skin concerns. They explore a study involving topical...

In Episode 10, Dr. Li Zheng and Dr. Greg Alpert explore Du Zhong (Eucommia bark) , a traditional Chinese herb commonly used to support the kidneys, tendons, bones, muscles, and lower back. They discuss how Du Zhong is used in Chinese medicine for conditions such as back pain, tendonitis, arthritis, and hormone imbalance, while also looking at emerging research into its potential anti-inflammatory...

What really happens when arthritis begins to affect your joints—and what can you do to support mobility as you age? In this episode, we discuss osteoarthritis, cartilage wear, joint inflammation, muscle imbalance, and repetitive movement , along with integrative approaches that may help support joint function and comfort. The conversation explores how acupuncture, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), impro...

Frequent nighttime urination, urinary incontinence, bladder weakness, and prostate-related urinary problems can have a major impact on everyday life. In this episode, we discuss practical approaches for supporting better bladder control and pelvic floor strength, including daily Kegel exercises , also known as Mula Bandha in yoga. The conversation also covers bridge exercises and the importance of...

Can ashwagandha help with stress, anxiety, and sleep? In this episode, Dr. Greg Alpert, a board-certified family medicine physician with training in integrative medicine, joins an acupuncture and herbal medicine practitioner to discuss ashwagandha and its potential role in supporting relaxation, mood, and sleep. The conversation covers research on ashwagandha, how it may affect stress and anxiety,...

Erectile dysfunction is often associated with low testosterone, but hormone levels are only one part of the picture. Healthy blood circulation, nerve function, underlying medical conditions, previous prostate cancer treatment, stress, and psychological confidence can all influence male sexual health. In this episode, we discuss the different factors that may contribute to erectile dysfunction and...

Can the foods we eat play a role in supporting long-term health and potentially reducing cancer risk? In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of medicinal and edible mushrooms and the growing research around their potential health benefits. The conversation covers Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Maitake, and Wood Ear mushrooms, including how these varieties have traditionally...

Dry eyes are becoming more common across all age groups, especially with increased screen time, reduced blinking, aging, and hormonal changes. In Episode 6, Dr. Li Zheng and Dr. Alpert discuss why dry eyes happen, how screen use and menopause can affect tear production, and natural ways to support eye comfort. They explore acupuncture, acupressure, Chinese herbs, antioxidant-rich berries, chrysant...

Why does insomnia sometimes continue even after trying medication, acupuncture or other short-term solutions? In this episode, Dr. Li Zheng and a multidisciplinary panel examine a challenging case involving a 40-year-old man experiencing persistent insomnia. Although different treatments provided temporary improvement, his sleep difficulties repeatedly returned. The panel explores insomnia from mu...

Why do some people still feel exhausted after sleeping for seven or eight hours? In this discussion, Dr. Li Zheng and Dr. Alpert explain the difference between sleep duration and sleep quality—and why calming the nervous system may be essential for deeper, more restorative sleep. They discuss practical sleep-hygiene habits, including reducing screen time, avoiding stimulating conversations and new...

Headaches and migraines can be triggered by many different factors, especially during the hot summer months in Florida. In this video, Dr. Albert and Dr. Zhang discuss common headache causes such as allergies, sinus congestion, dehydration, caffeine, alcohol, blood pressure changes, low blood sugar, neck tension, food preservatives, histamine reactions, and inflammation. They also explain how migr...

In this episode, we discuss why healthy blood pressure regulation is important for protecting the brain, eyes, and overall circulation. Blood pressure that is too high may increase the risk of stroke, dry eye, dizziness, and memory-related concerns, while blood pressure that is too low may reduce proper blood flow to the brain and eyes, leading to fatigue, lightheadedness, poor concentration, and...

Introducing the first episode of East Meets West Acupuncture Podcast. In EP-1: Neuropathy, Boston Acupuncturist Dr. Li Zheng and Boca MD discuss how Eastern and Western medicine can work together to support people dealing with different types of neuropathy. This episode covers acupuncture, herbs, medication, lifestyle changes, circulation, inflammation, gut health, sleep, digestion, and nervous sy...