Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Perillae Caulis |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 紫蘇梗 · Zi Su Geng |
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| Medicinal Part | Stems and woods |
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| Efficacy Category | Qi-regulating |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried stem of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt.(Lamiaceae) |
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| Nature & Flavour | Acrid; Warm |
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| Channels Entered | Lung, Spleen |
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What Is Zi Su Geng?
Zi Su Geng (Cutivated Purple Perilla Stem) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Henan, Hebei.
Nature & Flavour: Acrid; Warm
Channels Entered: Lung, Spleen
Zi Su Geng: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Perillae Caulis
Botanical Origin
The dried stem of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt.(Lamiaceae)
Production Regions
Primarily produced in the Chinese provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Henan, Hebei.
Quality Requirements
Superior medicinal material has purplish-brown skin and potent aromatic odor.
Macroscopic Features
Square columnar shape, four ridges are blunt round, uneven length, 0.5~1.5cm diameter. Externally purplish-brown or dark purple, four sides has longitudinal grooves and thin longitudinal lines, nodes are slightly enlarged, with opposing branch scars and leaf scars. Fractured surface has a cracked shape. Slice is 2~5mm thick, often is angular rectangular shape, yellowish-white xylem, dense rays, in radial arrangement, pith is white.
Traditional TCM Properties
Acrid; WarmLungSpleen
Traditional Functions
Regulates qi and harmonizes the middle, stops pain, and calms the fetus.
How Zi Su Geng Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Zi Su Geng is classified among the Qi-regulating herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
