The Efficacy and Functions of Perilla
Disease description:
My friend has recently caught a cold, experiencing nasal congestion and fever. Today while buying vegetables, he happened to see someone selling perilla, which he says can treat colds and works quite well. May I ask, what are the effects and benefits of perilla?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Perilla is a common herbaceous plant whose leaves and seeds have certain medicinal values.
Main functions and effects of perilla:
1. **Relieves exterior syndromes and dispels cold**: In traditional Chinese medicine, perilla leaf is believed to have the effect of inducing perspiration and resolving exterior patterns, which can help alleviate symptoms caused by cold-type influenza, such as headache, nasal congestion, and body aches.
2. **Aids digestion**: Perilla contains volatile oils that can stimulate gastric juice secretion, helping to improve indigestion and relieve nausea and vomiting. It is sometimes used to help eliminate the fishy odor associated with seafood consumption.
3. **Antibacterial and antiviral**: Compounds found in perilla exhibit certain antibacterial and antiviral activities, which may help the body resist certain pathogens.
4. **Antioxidant**: Perilla is rich in antioxidant substances, such as phenolic compounds, which can scavenge free radicals in the body and help prevent cellular damage caused by oxidative stress.
