Ethnobotanical

  Perilla frutescens - The Leaf for Respiratory and Digestive Support Introduction Perilla frutescens is a widely used medicinal and culinary herb in northern Vietnam. Known for its aromatic leaves and distinctive flavor, it has traditionally been employed to relieve respiratory discomfort, aid digestion, and support general health. The plant is valued in both daily cuisine and traditional remedies in local communities. Botanical and cultural background Perilla frutescens , a member of the Lamiaceae family, is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows between 50 and 100 cm in height, with erect, branching stems. Its broad, ovate leaves are distinctly serrated along the edges and vary in color from bright green to reddish-purple, depending on the cultivar and environmental conditions. The plant produces small, clustered flowers that range from white to pale purple, blooming primarily from late summer to early autumn. The leaves, stems, and seeds of perilla are all valued fo...