Perilla and Lemon Leaf Tea: A Refreshing Drink With Health Benefits

Perilla leaves, also known as tô diệp or tử tô in Vietnamese, are a familiar herb in both cuisine and traditional medicine. This plant is widely used as a seasoning and has long been valued for its therapeutic properties.

According to Eastern medicine, perilla has a spicy flavor and warm nature, working on the lung and spleen meridians. It is believed to help relieve colds, reduce phlegm, calm restlessness, regulate qi, detoxify food poisoning from seafood, and even support pregnancy.

Different parts of the perilla plant are used for various purposes:

• Leaves: used in remedies for colds, coughs, indigestion, abdominal pain, and nausea caused by seafood.

• Stems: believed to help stabilize pregnancy.

• Seeds: used in treating rheumatism, asthma, cough, and excessive phlegm.

In addition to being a flavorful garnish, the leaves are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and phosphorus. They can also be boiled to prepare a soothing herbal tea.

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Health Benefits of Perilla and Lemon Tea

When combined with lemon, perilla tea becomes a refreshing, nutrient-rich drink. Both ingredients are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which:

• Help fight inflammation

• Strengthen the immune system

• Aid digestion

• Relieve cough and sore throat

Adding a little rock sugar makes the drink easier to consume and provides extra benefits such as soothing the throat, moistening the lungs, and replenishing body fluids. Alternatively, honey can be used instead of sugar for added antibacterial and immune-boosting properties.

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How to Prepare Perilla and Lemon Tea

Ingredients:

• 30–35 g fresh perilla leaves

• 150 ml water

• Lemon juice (to taste)

• Rock sugar or honey (optional)

• Aloe vera (optional, for added flavor and texture)

Instructions:

1. Wash the perilla leaves thoroughly.

2. Place them in a pot with 150 ml water and boil for about 2 minutes.

3. Pour the liquid into a cup, allow it to cool slightly, then add lemon juice and stir.

4. Sweeten with rock sugar or honey if desired.

5. (Optional) Add small, blanched aloe vera cubes for extra freshness.

Tips:

• Only add lemon juice after the tea has cooled slightly to preserve nutrients.

• Do not over-boil perilla leaves, as prolonged heat can cause the nutrients to evaporate.

• Use sweeteners sparingly to avoid excessive sugar intake or unwanted weight gain.

• To enhance the flavor, you can also add mint leaves, tangerine peel, or lemongrass.

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Final Note

Perilla and lemon tea is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wide range of health benefits. When consumed warm, it can help boost immunity, relieve respiratory discomfort, improve digestion, and refresh the body. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn this traditional herb into a daily health-boosting drink.