The Efficacy and Functions of Perilla Seed
Nov 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Perilla seed has effects and functions such as lowering qi and resolving phlegm, relieving cough and alleviating asthma, moistening the intestines to facilitate bowel movements, regulating gastrointestinal function, and anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions. Perilla seed is warm in nature and enters the lung meridian; it is effective in lowering qi and eliminating phlegm and can be used to treat conditions such as phlegm obstruction with upward rebellion of qi. In treating patients with cough and asthma caused by phlegm obstruction and upward qi reversal, it can be combined with other herbs such as white mustard seed (Bai Jie Zi) and radish seed (Lai Fu Zi), as seen in the classical formula San Zi Yang Qin Tang (Decoction of Three Seeds for Nourishing the Elderly).
Generally, Perilla fruit (Zi Su Zi) has functions and benefits including lowering qi and resolving phlegm, relieving cough and alleviating asthma, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, regulating gastrointestinal function, and anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. The specific details are as follows:
1. Lowering Qi and Resolving Phlegm: Perilla fruit is warm in nature and enters the lung meridian, possessing the effect of lowering qi and eliminating phlegm. It can be used for conditions such as phlegm obstruction and qi reversal. In treating patients with cough and asthma caused by phlegm obstruction and qi reversal, it can be combined with herbs such as white mustard seed (Bai Jie Zi) and radish seed (Lai Fu Zi), as in the formula San Zi Yang Qin Tang.
2. Relieving Cough and Alleviating Asthma: Perilla fruit effectively improves symptoms such as cough, asthma, excessive thick yellow phlegm, chest tightness, and rib pain caused by stagnation or upward rebellion of lung qi. It can also be combined with herbs such as cinnamon bark (Rou Gui) and magnolia bark (Hou Pu), as in the formula Su Zi Jang Qi Tang, used for asthma and cough due to excess upper and deficiency lower conditions.
3. Moistening the Intestines and Relieving Constipation: Perilla fruit has the effect of moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements, enhancing intestinal motility, particularly effective for habitual or stubborn constipation. For treating constipation caused by intestinal dryness, it can be combined with hemp seed (Huo Ma Ren), apricot seed (Xing Ren), and other herbs.
4. Regulating Gastrointestinal Function: Perilla fruit can promote gastric juice secretion, enhance intestinal motility, improve digestion and absorption, and alleviate symptoms such as stomach pain and abdominal distension.
5. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects: Perilla fruit contains volatile oils and flavonoids that have certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to treat conditions such as oral ulcers and skin itching. Perilla oil demonstrates strong inhibitory effects against Proteus, yeast, black mold, and Penicillium.
Perilla fruit offers multiple functions and benefits. However, when using it, one should follow medical advice, ensure appropriate dosage, and closely monitor the patient's response.
