The Functions and Benefits of Perilla Leaves
In the realm of Chinese medicine, where food and herbs are considered synonymous, perilla leaves are highly favored for their unique aroma and diverse benefits. This fragrant plant, native to East Asia, not only adorns the fields but also carries the wisdom of health preservation over thousands of years. This article will delve into the medicinal value and creative consumption methods of perilla leaves, offering you a comprehensive understanding of this miraculous plant that serves both as food and medicine.
Medicinal Value of Perilla Leaves
1. Natural Hemostatic Remedy
Modern pharmacological studies show that α-linolenic acid and rosmarinic acid in perilla leaves have the property of promoting platelet aggregation. Crushing fresh leaves and applying them externally can not only stop bleeding quickly, but their natural antibacterial components can also prevent wound infection. However, it is important to note that deep wounds still require professional medical treatment.
2. Expert in Expelling Cold
The combination of perilla leaves and ginger is considered a golden combination for expelling cold. The volatile oil components can dilate capillaries and promote blood circulation. In the early stages of a cold caused by wind and cold, boiling 10 grams of perilla leaves with 3 slices of ginger and drinking the liquid when it cools to 40°C is most effective. At night, you can soak your feet in the dregs that have been boiled, achieving internal and external treatment simultaneously.
3. Excellent for Detoxification
The perilla aldehyde contained in perilla leaves can neutralize the toxins in fish and crabs. Adding 5-8 fresh leaves when cooking seafood can not only remove fishy odors and increase aroma but also prevent allergic reactions. After accidentally consuming spoiled aquatic products, immediately drink a strong decoction made with 30 grams of perilla leaves to accelerate the metabolism of toxins.
Health Maintenance with Perilla Leaf Diet
1. Tea Preparation
Drying fresh leaves in the shade to make perilla leaf tea, combined with mint leaves and lemon slices, can be served chilled in summer to quench thirst and open the appetite. In winter, it can be boiled with red dates and longan to make a health drink that warms and nourishes the blood and Qi.
2. Medicinal Diet Cooking
The classic braised waterfowl with perilla leaves requires using old ducks and adding 20 perilla leaves to slow-cook for 2 hours. The best cooking time is when the soup呈现s an amber color. For making perilla leaf cakes, a ratio of 7:3 of glutinous rice flour and indica rice flour is recommended, with a steaming time of no more than 15 minutes to maintain a green color.
3. Creative Cuisine
Creative eating methods include wrapping fresh shrimp tempura with perilla leaves, and using perilla and plum sauce in salads. Chopping tender leaves and mixing them into dough can create unique perilla leaf pasta, which is a fusion of Chinese and Western eating methods and is popular among young people.
From medicinal to culinary uses, perilla leaves demonstrate astonishing versatility. This seemingly ordinary plant is, in fact, a natural gift that protects our health. Whether it is traditional Chinese medicine diet or modern creative cuisine, perilla leaves can add a bright color to our healthy dining table. It is recommended to consume them in moderation according to individual constitutions, allowing this millennial medicinal herb to continue nourishing modern life.