Can cooking eggs with perilla leaves treat nasal congestion?

Jul 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In the early stage of a cold caused by wind-cold invasion, nasal congestion is usually mild, with clear nasal discharge and no sore throat. Taking eggs cooked with perilla leaves may help, as perilla's warming property can assist in promoting nasal qi circulation. Applying a warm compress to the nose may also help alleviate nasal congestion. At this time, it is important to stay warm and avoid further cold exposure. If nasal congestion is caused by a wind-heat感冒, it is often accompanied by yellow, thick nasal discharge, nasal dryness, and a sensation of heat, or may be caused by other conditions such as nasal polyps or sinusitis.

Generally speaking, perilla leaf boiled eggs may help alleviate mild nasal congestion caused by cold pathogens, but they are ineffective for nasal congestion caused by heat pathogens or structural issues. If abnormalities occur, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

In the early stage of a cold caused by cold pathogens, when nasal congestion is mild, with clear nasal discharge and no sore throat, consuming perilla leaf boiled eggs may help relieve nasal congestion. The eggs' warming properties can assist in promoting nasal qi circulation. Combining this with warm compresses on the nose may help alleviate symptoms. At this time, keeping warm to avoid further cold exposure is important.

If nasal congestion is caused by a heat-type cold, accompanied by yellow, thick nasal discharge, dryness, or a burning sensation in the nose, or if it is due to conditions such as nasal polyps or sinusitis, perilla leaf boiled eggs will not provide relief. Their warming nature may worsen heat symptoms and they have no effect on structural blockages. Targeted medical interventions are necessary for improvement.

If nasal congestion persists for more than a week or is accompanied by headache or fever, prompt medical consultation is necessary to determine the cause. Relying solely on dietary adjustments may delay appropriate treatment. When consuming fresh food, ensure its freshness and safety, avoid contact with unknown substances, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of poisoning occur. Self-treatment through diet alone should not be relied upon to prevent delays in receiving timely medical care.