How to use perilla leaves for beautiful skin and smooth hair.
Perilla leaves contain many bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, and natural essential oils (perillaldehyde, limonene...). In addition, these leaves provide vitamin A, vitamin C, and several minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Studies show that these compounds have antioxidant properties and help reduce inflammatory responses. They help protect cells from the effects of free radicals – one of the factors associated with skin aging.
Using perilla leaves as food
Perilla leaves have long been used as a culinary herb. Perilla leaves can be used for:
- Eat it raw with spring rolls, salads, or other similar dishes.
- Add it to fish, seafood, or meat soups as a seasoning.
- Combine it with porridge or soup.
Adding perilla leaves to your diet helps increase your intake of natural antioxidants and vitamins. When combined with a balanced diet, this is one of the factors that contributes to maintaining healthy skin from within.
Perilla leaves are not only a spice used in many dishes but are also used in skincare and hair care. (Illustrative image)
Drinking perilla leaf tea helps improve skin complexion.
Perilla leaf tea is a popular drink, especially in the summer . You can use about 10-15 fresh, washed perilla leaves, boil them with 500-700 ml of water, and drink it throughout the day. If desired, you can add a few slices of ginger or some lemon after the tea has cooled down to enhance the flavor.
Note that you should not completely replace plain water with perilla leaf tea, nor should you consume it in excessively large quantities for extended periods.
Use perilla leaves as a face mask.
Applying a perilla leaf mask is a widely shared beauty tip. Perilla leaf extract contains antioxidant compounds and helps reduce inflammation. However, this does not mean that applying fresh leaves directly to the skin will yield immediate results.
To make a perilla leaf face mask, prepare a handful of fresh perilla leaves, wash them thoroughly, and soak them in diluted salt water. Then, crush or blend the perilla leaves with a little clean water, filter out the pulp, and spread it evenly on your face, or use a cotton pad to apply the juice gently to your skin.
Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. Doing this regularly 2-3 times a week over a period of time will help your skin become brighter and smoother.
To avoid irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin, before using a perilla leaf mask, it is recommended to test it on a small, thin area of skin for 24 hours. If redness, itching, or burning occurs, discontinue use immediately.
Wash your hair with perilla leaves.
Perilla leaf water has a pleasant aroma, helps gently cleanse the scalp, and provides a relaxing feeling after washing.
For healthy and beautiful hair, in addition to choosing herbal shampoos, it's important to ensure a balanced diet, especially rich in protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins; and to limit the use of high temperatures or chemicals on the hair.
Notes on using perilla leaves for beauty purposes.
Perilla leaves are generally safe when used in normal amounts in meals. However, some cases require caution:
- People with a history of allergies to perilla or other herbs in the same family should exercise caution.
- Do not use high doses of perilla leaf extract without consulting a doctor first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking blood thinners.
- If rashes, itching, or other skin irritations appear after ingestion or topical application, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Readers are invited to watch the video :