Can I eat perilla during pregnancy?
Jun 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, perilla can be consumed during pregnancy. Perilla is a common herbal plant with certain medicinal value. It has functions of relieving superficies and dispelling coldness, regulating qi and widening the middle jiao, which can help alleviate common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. In addition, the aroma of perilla has calming and soothing effects, which may help pregnant women relieve tension and anxiety.
Generally speaking, pregnant women can consume perilla during pregnancy, but should do so in moderation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Perilla is a common herbal plant that has certain medicinal value. It can help relieve common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite by dispersing cold and regulating qi to widen the chest. Additionally, the aroma of perilla has a calming effect and can help pregnant women alleviate tension and anxiety. Therefore, moderate consumption of perilla during pregnancy is acceptable.
However, perilla is warming in nature, and excessive consumption may lead to excessive internal heat, causing discomforts such as dry mouth and constipation. Therefore, pregnant women should control the amount of perilla they consume. Moreover, if a pregnant woman is allergic to perilla or experiences any discomfort after consumption, such as rashes or difficulty breathing, she should stop using it immediately and consult a doctor.
Before consumption, perilla leaves should be thoroughly washed to ensure there are no pesticide residues or contaminants, thus ensuring food safety. A balanced diet with diverse food sources should also be maintained to promote the health of both mother and baby.
