Herbal Information for Zi Su Ye in Cut Form

Zi Su Ye's wide range of applications and historical significance make it an essential herb in traditional Chinese medicine, valued for its ability to treat respiratory issues, and digestive problems.

The use of Zi Su Ye dates back to ancient Chinese medicinal texts, such as the "Miscellaneous Records of Famous Physicians" (Mingyi Bielu) and the "Compendium of Materia Medica" (Ben Cao Gang Mu). These texts highlight its role in treating various ailments and its inclusion in several classical TCM formulas​

1. Releases the Exterior and Disperses Cold

Zi Su Ye, also known as Perilla Leaf, is highly effective in treating wind-cold exterior syndromes. This traditional Chinese herb is known for its ability to alleviate symptoms such as chills, fever, headache, nasal congestion, and cough. By inducing sweating and expelling pathogens from the body, Zi Su Ye helps the body to overcome the external factors causing the illness. Its warming properties make it a valuable remedy in combating the effects of wind-cold invasion.

2. Regulates Qi and Alleviates Digestive Issues

The herb promotes the flow of qi (vital energy) and helps to alleviate digestive problems like nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension. It is particularly useful for addressing qi stagnation in the spleen and stomach, which can cause discomfort and poor digestion​. 

3. Calms the Fetus and Relieves Morning Sickness

Zi Su Ye is employed for its ability to pacify an agitated fetus and manage morning sickness in expectant mothers. Its inherent warm properties prove beneficial in alleviating symptoms arising from qi stagnation and cold in the middle burner, effectively mitigating instances of nausea and vomiting.

4. Detoxifies and Relieves Seafood Poisoning

Historically, Perilla Leaf has been used to counteract the effects of seafood poisoning, particularly from fish and crabs. This application leverages its ability to harmonize the stomach and resolve food stagnation.​

5. Alleviates Respiratory Conditions

Zi Su Ye, a herb with therapeutic properties in Traditional Chinese Medicine, aids in alleviating respiratory ailments like coughs and asthma. By effectively descending lung qi and easing coughing symptoms, Zi Su Ye plays a crucial role in addressing these conditions. It is a key ingredient in numerous TCM formulas specially crafted to combat upper respiratory tract infections and related health issues. Its natural properties make it a valuable component in achieving respiratory wellness and promoting overall respiratory health.

6. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

The leaves contain phytonutrient antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins and flavones, as well as rosmarinic acid. These compounds provide anti-inflammatory benefits and help in reducing oxidative stress, contributing to overall health and wellness.​

Common Name:  Perilla, Korean Perilla

Botanical Name:  Perilla frutescens

Other Names: Perilla Mint, Beefsteak Plant, Purple Perilla, Chinese Basil Wild Basil, Blueweed, Joseph's Coat, Wild coleus, Rattlesnake Weed

Pin Yin Name:  Zi Su Ye

Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.

Package Size:   150 g/bag
(note this is not a pound)

Form:  Cut, unsulfured

Origin: China

Brand: Plum Flower, species - authenticated herbs

Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. 

California Prop 65 

Naturally Occurring Components: Phenolic acids, Flavonoids, Essential oils, Triterpenes, Carotenoids, Phytosterols, Fatty acids, Tocopherols, PolicosanolsIron, Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Riboflavin, Dietary Fiber, Niacin, Iron, Protien, Thiamine

Channels / Meridians: Lung, Spleen

Properties:  Acrid, Aromatic, Warm

History of Zi Su Ye

Cultural and Culinary Integration

Zi Su Ye, known as Shiso in Japan, is not only used for its medicinal properties but has also been incorporated into East Asian culinary traditions. In Japan, it is commonly used in sushi and sashimi dishes, while in Korea, Perilla is used in making kimchi and other fermented dishes. Its unique flavor and health benefits have made it a staple ingredient in both medicinal and culinary practices across the region.

Summary of Zi Su Ye

Zi Su Ye is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to disperse wind-cold, promote the flow of Qi and soothe the middle.  Nutritionally it is rich in Vitamin C, A and riboflavin; Zi su Ye promotes a positive mental state, has antioxidant properties, antibacterial properties, antifungal properties, anti-allergic effects, and anti-inflammatory activity.

• Supports Digestive Health
• Benefits Cardiovascular Health
• Promotes Calm and Positive Mental State
• Supports a Healthy Immune System

Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.  

About Plum Flower Quality Herbs

Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.                                         

• Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results.
• Manufactured using Unsulfured, Chlorine free, Aluminum Phosphate free herbs when possible.
• Microbials and heavy metals tested. No preservatives.

Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.

Chinese medicine is a 5,000 year old art and science. Diagnosis and prescription require a trained professional. If your symptoms do not improve, please consult your acupuncturist, doctor of oriental medicine, or physician.

References:

https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ZiSuYe.html

https://tcmwiki.com/wiki/zi-su-ye

https://asante-academy.com/encyclopedia/zi-su-ye/

https://www.jadeinstitute.com/posts/zi-su-ye-perilla-frutesens/

https://yinyanghouse.com/theory/theory/herbalmedicine/zi_su_ye_tcm_herbal_database/