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Perilla (Shiso)
Perilla frutesens
Native to areas from the Himalayas to Japan, Perilla (Shiso) has naturalized
in North America. This Herb is a self-seeding annual in temperate climates,
growing to a foot or two high. It has shiny purple, frilly leaves, also
green and multi-colored leaves as well.
Shiso has a very rich Ginger and Cinnamon flavor with added Cilantro and
Mint undertones. Some of the different cultivars have been used in salads,
garnishes, and to wrap meat to flavor it while cooking. Oil from the foliage
is used in sauces, tobacco, candy and dental products
The medicinal qualities of Perilla (Shiso) include relaxing spasms,
increasing circulation, effective against bacterial infections, laxative,
expectorant and controls coughing. The leaves and stems have been used for
colds and chills, coughs, rheumatism, bronchitis, asthma, constipation,
nausea, abdominal pain, food poisoning. The seeds are effective against
allergic reactions, especially from seafood. The stems are used in
Traditional Chinese Medicine for morning sickness.
Some information obtained from "Encyclopedia of Herbs" by
Deni Brown , and from 'The Herb Companion', May, 2009.
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