🍂Autumn

Perilla Seed Powder

들깨가루Deulkkaegaru

Perilla frutescens

荏子(Imja) - Perilla seed — also called 임자 in the Donguibogam

Perilla (들깨) is native to East Asia and has been cultivated in Korea since ancient times. The Donguibogam classifies it under 곡부 임자조, noting its warm nature and ability to moisten the lungs and lubricate the intestines. In Korean temple cuisine, perilla seed powder is an essential ingredient — it creates the creamy, rich mouthfeel in soups that would otherwise come from animal fats. The plant is unique in Korean cuisine because both the seeds (들깨) and the leaves (깻잎) are used extensively, each with distinct flavors and culinary applications.

Traditional Medicine

Source: Donguibogam (동의보감)

Nature (性)

Warm (溫)

Flavor (味)

sweet

Target Organs (歸經)

Lung (肺), large_intestine

Benefits

respiratory
Moistens the lungs and stops coughing
폐를 윤하게 하고 기침을 멎게 한다
Source: 동의보감 [탕액편] 곡부 임자조
digestion
Lubricates the intestines and resolves constipation
장을 윤하게 하고 변비를 풀어준다
Source: 동의보감 [탕액편] 곡부 임자조
energy
Supplements qi and nourishes skin and flesh
기를 보하고 살을 윤택하게 한다
Source: 동의보감 [탕액편] 곡부

Key Compounds

Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3)Rosmarinic acidLuteolinVitamin E

This information is based on traditional Korean medicine texts (Donguibogam) and is for cultural reference only. It does not constitute medical advice.

Seasonal Availability

🍂AutumnAvailable year-round

Perilla seeds are harvested in October. Freshly ground powder has the most potent earthy, nutty aroma. Store-bought powder loses flavor quickly; grinding fresh is ideal.

Processing Methods (법제)

Roast and grind(볶아서 분쇄)

Roasting activates aromatic compounds; grinding releases the omega-3 rich oils for better absorption. Best used immediately after grinding.

Consumption Tips by Health Goal

Respiratory health

Add to warm soups and porridges. The warm, moistening nature of perilla powder soothes dry lungs and helps with dry coughs.

Culinary Profile

Flavor

Distinctively earthy, nutty, with a unique grassy undertone; richer and more complex than sesame

Texture

Fine, slightly oily powder; adds creamy body to soups and sauces

Common Uses

Thickener for soups and stews (creates creamy texture without dairy)Seasoning for namul and kimchiMixed into noodle broths

Western Substitutes

Ground flaxseed (similar omega-3 content)Tahini thinned with water (approximate texture)

Perilla Seed Powder

Traditional Medicine

Benefits

Key Compounds

Seasonal Availability

Processing Methods (법제)

Consumption Tips by Health Goal

Culinary Profile

Related Recipes

Temple Kimchi (No Garlic, No Green Onion)

Oyster Mushroom & Zucchini Stir-fry with Perilla Seeds

Mushrooms with Perilla Seed Powder

Macrobiotic Temple Food Bowl

King Oyster Mushrooms with Perilla Seed Sauce

Butterbur Stem & Radish Stir-fry with Perilla Seeds

Perilla Leaf Shoots Namul with Ground Perilla Seeds

Radish with Perilla Seed Powder

Cucumber & Perilla Seed Stir-fry

Taro Stem Stir-fry with Perilla Seeds

Perilla Seed Chive Salad

Perilla Oil Soy Sauce

Temple-Style Joseon Soy Sauce Dressing