Perilla (Zisu)
Botanical Name: Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt.
Other Names: Gui Ren, Bai Su, Chi Su
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Plant Type: Annual herb
Medicinal Parts: The dried stems and leaves. The leaves are called Perilla Leaf (Zisu Ye), and the stems are called Perilla Stem (Zisu Geng).
Production Areas: Widely cultivated across China.
Harvesting & Processing: Collected during summer when the plant is lush, dried in the shade, and cut into segments. Used in raw form.
[Properties]
Taste & Nature: Pungent and warm.
Meridians Entered: Lung and Spleen meridians.
[Functions]
- Induces sweating and releases the exterior.
- Regulates qi and harmonizes the middle burner.
- Detoxifies seafood poisoning.
[Clinical Applications]
- Used for wind-cold common cold.
- Used for chest tightness, nausea, and vomiting.
- Used for vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain caused by consuming fish or crab.
[Dosage & Administration]
Decoction: 3-10g. For seafood poisoning, it can be used alone at a dose of 30-60g. Should not be boiled for too long.
- Perilla Leaf (Zisu Ye) is more effective for inducing sweating and releasing the exterior.
- Perilla Stem (Zisu Geng) is more effective for regulating qi and calming the fetus.