What is the TCM thermal nature of Perilla Leaf?

Perilla Leaf (Zi Su Ye) is classified as Pungent, Warm; Lung, Spleen in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

What are the traditional TCM uses of Perilla Leaf?

In TCM, Perilla Leaf is traditionally used for: Releases the exterior and disperses cold; moves qi and harmonizes the Stomach.

Where is Perilla Leaf documented in classical TCM texts?

Perilla Leaf appears in the Shennong Bencao Jing (~200 CE) and has been documented in TCM pharmacopoeia for over 1,800 years.

Perilla Leaf

Zi Su Ye · 紫苏叶 · TCM Herb Encyclopedia entry maintained by tcmplate Editorial · Updated 2026-09-05

📋 TCM Classification

Thermal Nature & Flavor: Pungent, Warm; Lung, Spleen

Chinese Name: 紫苏叶

Traditional Uses in Chinese Medicine

Releases the exterior and disperses cold; moves qi and harmonizes the Stomach.

Chinese pharmacopoeia: 解表散寒，行气和胃。

Classical References

Food Therapy Applications

In TCM food therapy, Perilla Leaf is traditionally incorporated into daily meals:

Congees (rice porridges): Slow-cooked with rice to support Spleen and Stomach function
Soups and broths: Combined with other food-grade herbs for seasonal wellness
Herbal teas: Steeped as a single herb or in compound tea formulas

Note: The above describes traditional food therapy use. It does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.

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