Zi Su Ye–Herbal Highlight

Zi Su Ye (Folium Perillae)

Perilla leaf, a remarkable herb, finds a place in both your apothecary or herb garden and culinary endeavors. Belonging to the mint family, it thrives abundantly in favorable conditions, favoring warm climates and partial shade. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is referred to as Zi Su Ye and falls under herbs releasing the exterior, making it an effective remedy for symptoms like fever, chills, headache, nasal congestion, or an early cough. With its warming nature and acrid flavor, perilla leaf promotes sweating to expel external pathogens, aiding in early-stage upper respiratory conditions. Its pungent taste supports Qi circulation, harmonizing the digestive system, and making it a versatile and beneficial herbal medicine. In TCM, the flavor profile holds significance in determining therapeutic properties and actions within the body, emphasizing the efficacy of perilla leaf in holistic health practices.

It has been known to help alleviate symptoms associated with general food poisoning/ sickness but is especially effective for seafood poisoning. Have you ever gotten sushi-to-go, or picked up a quick California Roll at the grocery store, It is usually adorned with green plastic, grass-like accoutrements?! This is supposed to be a representation of Perilla, known as Shiso in Japanese. It can also help with other digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, low appetite, or even morning sickness in pregnancy. This herb is not meant to be taken long term, as some herbs are, but is best used when the symptoms listed above just begin to surface. It can be taken alone but is often used in conjunction with other herbs and in formulas.

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Uses Of Perilla Leaf

Perilla leaf is a versatile herb belonging to the mint family, falling under the category of herbs that release the exterior. This makes it a valuable remedy for symptoms like fever, chills, headache, nasal congestion, or an early cough. With its warming nature and acrid flavor, perilla leaf aids in promoting sweating to expel external pathogens, particularly beneficial for early-stage upper respiratory conditions. Additionally, its pungent taste supports Qi circulation and harmonizes the digestive system.

• Helps ease symptoms associated with colds, flu, viruses such as fever, chills, headache, nasal congestion, and cough, especially early colds with white or clear phlegm

• Especially good for calming cough, and easing the throat

• Alleviate seafood poisoning

• Can ease digestive discomfort such as nausea and vomiting

• Helps with morning sickness

Common Formulas

Common Chinese Herbal formulas that this herb is found in;

• Ban Xia Hou Po Tang (Pinellia and Magnolia Bark Decoction)

• Xiang Su San (Cyperus and Perilla Leaf Powder)

• Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang (Perilla Fruit Decoction for Directing Qi Downward)

• Bounce Back by Dao Labs -Fcuses upon alleviating the body of symptoms associated with colds such as fever, headaches, chills, body aches, and nasal congestion.

Others Uses of Perilla Leaf

The fresh leaf is delicious and can be eaten raw or cooked in soups, stews, stir-frys or even as a wrapping for a tasty filling. I have even tastes a few herbal perilla leaf cocktails!

*Disclaimer- These statements/products are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease, please check in with a well-versed healthcare practitioner to see if these herbal choices are right for you. Substances mentioned above may be associated with mild side effects depending upon your constitution, so like with any herbs use with caution and make responsible choices. First and foremost listen to your body and your doctor.

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