Perilla Frutescens Crispa, commonly known as Shiso or Perilla, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Native to East Asia, specifically China, Japan, and Korea, it has been cultivated for centuries for its culinary and medicinal properties.
Shiso is a highly versatile plant with various subspecies, and Perilla Frutescens Crispa is one of its popular cultivars. It is characterized by its distinctive leaves, which have serrated edges and a wrinkled or crinkled appearance. The leaves come in various shades, ranging from vibrant green to reddish-purple, depending on the plant's maturity and environmental conditions.
Cultivated primarily for its aromatic and flavorful leaves, Perilla Frutescens Crispa is commonly used as a culinary herb in East Asian cuisines. Its leaves are often used fresh or dried to add a unique and distinct taste to a wide range of dishes, including salads, sushi, stir-fries, and pickled vegetables. The flavor can be described as a combination of minty, basil-like, and anise notes.
Apart from its culinary uses, Perilla Frutescens Crispa has also been used for traditional medicinal purposes. Its leaves are known to contain compounds with potential health benefits, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
In conclusion, Perilla Frutescens Crispa is a herbaceous plant of the mint family, known for its distinctively crinkled leaves. It is widely used in East Asian cuisine and is valued for its aromatic and flavorful qualities. Additionally, it has been traditionally utilized for its potential medicinal properties.
