Acupuncture Times Your guide to acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and TCM — explore acupoints, herbs and formulas, plus the latest acupuncture research news.
Related Articles
Su Zi (蘇子), perilla seed, descends rebellious Lung qi to stop cough and calm wheezing, transforms phlegm, and moistens the Intestines to relieve constipation.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Perilla frutescens (Fructus Perillae)
Common English Name
Perilla seed
Taste
Acrid
Temperature
Warm
Channels Entered
Lung, Large Intestine
Actions & Functions
- Descends Lung qi, calms wheezing and stops cough
- Transforms phlegm
- Moistens the Intestines and unblocks the bowels
Indications
Cough and wheezing with copious phlegm and a stifling chest; and constipation from dryness with qi stagnation.
Dosage
4.5-9 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
With Bai Jie Zi and Lai Fu Zi (San Zi Yang Qin Tang) for phlegm cough in the elderly.
Cautions & Contraindications
Avoid in diarrhoea from Spleen deficiency and in cough from yin deficiency.
