Perilla Leaves – The “Miracle Herb” Commonly Sold in Vietnamese Markets: 7 Benefits of Drinking Perilla Leaf Water Regularly

Health Benefits of Perilla Leaf Water

Perilla leaves, a familiar aromatic herb in the daily meals of Vietnamese people, are not only a seasoning that enhances the flavor of dishes but also a “miracle herb” packed with numerous outstanding health benefits. According to VOV Online, citing Netmeds, the benefits of drinking perilla leaf water include:

1. Supports respiratory health, relieves cold and flu symptoms, and reduces cough

The essential oils in perilla leaves have an expectorant effect, helping expel phlegm from the respiratory tract and easing cough symptoms. Compounds in perilla leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling in the airways and soothing irritation.
Therefore, perilla leaves are used to help treat conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, colds, and runny nose. You can drink perilla leaf tea, inhale steam from boiled perilla leaves, or eat them with hot porridge.

2. Improves cardiovascular health



Compounds in perilla leaves help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), preventing atherosclerosis. In addition, perilla leaves help stabilize blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack. For best results, consume perilla leaves regularly in meals or drink their juice.

3. Enhances digestion and relieves stomach pain

The compounds in perilla leaves stimulate appetite and gastric juice secretion, aiding better digestion. Their fiber nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, balances the microbiome, and reduces bloating or indigestion.
Notably, perilla leaves’ antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties soothe ulcers and effectively relieve stomach pain. They also aid detoxification and help reduce food poisoning symptoms.

4. Reduces allergies and inflammation

Perilla leaves can inhibit histamine, the compound responsible for allergic reactions such as itching and hives. Their anti-inflammatory compounds also help reduce joint pain. Perilla leaves support treatment for skin conditions such as eczema and atopic dermatitis.

5. Detoxifies and cleanses the body

By stimulating liver and kidney function, perilla leaves help the body eliminate accumulated toxins, purify the blood, and improve overall health. You can drink fresh perilla leaf juice or add them to daily dishes to enjoy their aroma and health benefits.

6. Improves skin health and fights aging

Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, E, and flavonoids in perilla leaves protect the skin from free radical damage – a main cause of aging, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and dullness.
They are also known for brightening skin and fading dark spots. Thanks to strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, perilla leaves help kill acne-causing bacteria, soothe inflamed pimples, prevent breakouts from spreading, and reduce scarring.

7. Calms the mind and reduces stress

Research shows that the aroma of perilla leaves can stimulate the brain to release “happy hormones” such as serotonin and dopamine, improving mood and reducing anxiety or stress.
They also have sedative effects, promoting restful and deep sleep. Natural compounds in perilla leaves regulate the nervous system, calm brain activity, and make it easier to fall asleep and sleep soundly. This helps improve insomnia, trouble sleeping, and restless nights, giving you full, energizing rest for the next day.

How to Prepare Perilla Leaf Water

Step 1: Wash 200–300 g of perilla leaves, keeping both stems and leaves intact. Cut into 5–7 cm pieces.
Step 2: Add 2.5 liters of water and the cleaned perilla leaves into a pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 3 minutes before turning off the heat.
Step 3: Strain and use the water. You can drink it hot or let it cool to drink as a substitute for plain water.

For better flavor, you can add 2–3 drops of lemon juice or a bit of rock sugar.

Notes when using fresh perilla leaf water

• Use within 24 hours for best quality and taste.

• Do not boil for more than 15 minutes, as the essential oils in the leaves and stems will evaporate, reducing effectiveness.

• People with heat-related illnesses should avoid drinking perilla leaf water.

• Drinking too much for a prolonged period may cause bloating, indigestion, or affect blood pressure.