Perilla (other wise known as shiso) is commonly used in Asian cuisine and herbal medicine. Perilla is commonly used for respiratory conditions including cold, flu and allergies. Research of this plant showed antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-allergic and neuroprotective effects.
Perilla leaves can be found at any large Asian grocer. These plants are easy to grow in the DC area, yielding edible leaves within weeks of seeding. Seeds may be easily purchased online at Kitazawa Seed company or Amazon. The seeds yield attractive bushes of perilla leaves, which then reseed themselves easily each subsequent year. Dr. Tian has over 100 perilla volunteers from last year.
To prepare the leaves, simply wash and dry with a salad spinner. Wrap each bite of your barbecue fish or meat in a single leaf to enjoy extra immune supportive nutrients.
Uses:
Wrap bite sized grilled meats or seafood
Wrap rice and seasoned seaweed
Slice thinly and toss into your soups or salads
Add to your stir fry at the last minute
Use as garnish
References:
Ahmed H. M. (2018). Ethnomedicinal, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Investigations ofPerilla frutescens(L.) Britt.Molecules (Basel, Switzerland),24(1), 102. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24010102