Light, citrusy, and quietly powerful, perilla–lemon tea blends culinary freshness with time-honored herbal support—soothing the throat, easing digestion, and lifting immunity with every warm sip.

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

Perilla leaves—also known as tô diệp or tử tô—straddle the worlds of cuisine and traditional medicine. Described as warm and aromatic, they’re traditionally linked to the lung and spleen meridians and used to ease chills, calm restlessness, move qi, and counter seafood-induced nausea. Nutritionally, perilla provides vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, and phosphorus.

• Leaves: common for colds, cough, indigestion, abdominal discomfort, and seafood reactions.
• Stems: traditionally used to help stabilize pregnancy.
• Seeds: employed for rheumatism, asthma, cough, and excess phlegm.

Health Benefits of Perilla and Lemon Tea

Pairing perilla with lemon yields a bright, restorative brew rich in vitamin C and plant antioxidants. Together, they can:

• Support immune defenses and respiratory comfort
• Help tame inflammation and soothe a scratchy throat
• Aid digestion and reduce post-meal heaviness

A touch of rock sugar softens the edges and can feel soothing on the throat; honey is a fine alternative, bringing mild antibacterial support. Use sweeteners sparingly to keep the cup light and functional.

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, small blanched cubes (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse perilla thoroughly.
2. Simmer in 150 ml water for about 2 minutes (do not over-boil).
3. Strain into a cup; let it cool slightly.
4. Stir in lemon juice; sweeten lightly if desired.
5. Optional: add aloe vera cubes for a refreshing, jelly-like texture.

Tips

• Add lemon only after the brew cools a little to preserve vitamin C.
• Short simmer = brighter flavor and better nutrient retention.
• Enhance with mint, tangerine peel, or lemongrass for aroma and depth.

Variations & Serving Ideas

• Iced Refresher: Chill the strained tea, add lemon, serve over ice with a perilla sprig.
• Ginger Lift: Simmer a few slices of fresh ginger with the leaves for extra warmth.
• Citrus Twist: Add a ribbon of tangerine peel during the simmer for a rounded, floral note.

Final Note

Perilla–lemon tea is simple to make, soothing to sip, and versatile in the cup. Enjoy it warm on blustery days or iced in summer—a small, daily ritual that supports clear breathing, comfortable digestion, and gentle immune balance.