Perilla Seed Zi Su Zi 500g Dried Raw Herb for Decoction and Culinary Use

Perilla Seed, known in TCM as Zi Su Zi (紫苏子), is the dried ripe seed of Perilla frutescens, a member of the mint family. These plump dark-brown seeds are sold as a raw edible botanical for decoction, grinding, or culinary use. In TCM theory, Zi Su Zi is pungent in flavor and warm in nature, traditionally associated with the Lung and Large Intestine channels. Store sealed in a cool dry place.

Key Selling Points

• Dried ripe seeds of Perilla frutescens supplied as raw Chinese herbal material
• Known in TCM as Zi Su Zi 紫苏子 with pungent flavor and warm nature
• Plump full granules with a rich nutty aroma typical of fresh-crop perilla seed
• Suitable for decoction pieces grinding into powder or culinary seasoning
• Sealed packaging with an 18-month shelf life for convenient storage

Quality & Sensory

Typically small oval seeds with a grayish-brown to dark-brown surface and fine reticulated texture. They feel oily and firm, carry a characteristic aromatic perilla scent, and taste mildly pungent with a nutty oil-rich note when cooked or ground.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Simmer in herbal decoctions following traditional formulas
• Grind into powder for porridge congee or baked goods
• Toast lightly and use as an aromatic culinary seasoning
• Blend into daily herbal teas with other botanicals

Traditional Uses

In TCM practice Zi Su Zi is traditionally used in decoctions and is a familiar ingredient in formulas such as San Zi Yang Qin Tang, where it is paired with mustard seed and radish seed. Folk use also includes grinding the seeds for congee or mixing with ginger and other warm herbs in seasonal winter preparations. It is traditionally associated with the Lung and Large Intestine channels.

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