Zi Su Geng
Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt.
โฏ TCM Properties
Regulates Qi and Broadens the Middle Burner; Alleviates Pain; Calms the Fetus; Opens the chest and benefits the diaphragm; Harmonizes the Stomach and Stops Vomiting
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Perilla frutescens is an aromatic annual herb of the family Lamiaceae native to East and Southeast Asia and widely cultivated in China, Japan and Korea both as a culinary herb and as a source of three distinct medicinal materials โ leaf (Zi Su Ye), seed (Zi Su Zi) and stem (Zi Su Geng). The plant reaches 60-150 cm in height with a quadrangular, finely pubescent stem that is green to deep purple depending on cultivar. The opposite, long-petiolate leaves are broadly ovate, 7-12 cm long, with coarsely serrate margins, green or purple, and emit a strong perfumy, somewhat cinnamon-clove scent when bruised. Small white to pinkish-purple two-lipped flowers are borne in slender terminal and axillary racemes, followed by small reticulate nutlets. The medicinal stem is the upper part of the main stem, cut into oblique slices showing a wide white pith.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Zi Su Geng (perilla stem) is a warm, aromatic herb that moves Qi and harmonizes the middle burner. It relieves bloating, chest tightness, and abdominal distension from stagnant Qi, and is particularly valued for easing morning sickness and calming fetal restlessness during pregnancy. Its gentle, Qi-moving nature makes it appropriate for patients with sensitive digestion, and it serves as the stem-based complement to Zi Su Ye (perilla leaf) in classical Qi-regulating formulas.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.