5 Functional Benefits of Perilla Leaves (2024)

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the perilla leaf, also known as the beefsteak plant, may treat everything from canker sores to stomach ailments. Although science has some ways to go before it properly assesses the health benefits of perilla leaves, this herb might just be your key to better well-being. Here are a few proven ways in which the perilla plant goes beyond providing nutrition —

Support Immunity

Perilla leaves contain compounds that support the overall function of the immune system. During the winter months, reach for this herb to maintain stronger immunity against cold, fever, chills, headache, stuffy nose and allergies. Using perilla oil for cooking may be a good preventive measure in the flu season.

Lower Heart Disease Risk

Perilla oil, extracted from perilla seeds, has a ratio of healthy fats that may help prevent heart disease. Perilla leaf powder also has a high level of antioxidants that help curb the oxidation of cholesterol in your food, preventing your arteries from accumulating plaque and hardening.

Ease Stomach and Intestinal Discomfort

Research shows that perilla leaves can reduce feelings of bloating, gas and uncomfortable fullness. They do this by strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter (which prevents acid reflux) and easing cramps with high levels of flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, and caffeic acid.

Increase Respiratory Health

A study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology reports that a four-week treatment with perilla seeds increases lung capacity significantly in patients with asthma. This may be due to the generous amount of quercetin, luteolin and rosmarinic acid in the perilla plant. Higher lung capacity supports and is indicative of overall respiratory health.

Support Brain Health and Manage Depression

Researchers have found that the alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in perilla seeds could aid in lowering depression. That’s because ALA fights disease-causing free radicals, reduces inflammation and potentially protects brain cells from conditions like Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and stroke.

Perilla leaves (a.k.a Kaennip in Korean, sūye, sūzǐyè, sūzǐ in Chinese and egoma, shiso in Japanese) have numerous health benefits for the young and old. This #FunctionlFood is easy to cook with and tastes delicious in salads, wraps and several oriental recipes. Perilla oil is an excellent cooking oil substitute and can also be used to create flavourful dressings, dips and sauces.

So, add these yummy, crunchy leaves to the list of greens you regularly shop for! We’re sure you’ll love them!