Perilla
/pəˈrɪlə/noun
A mint-family herb of the genus Perilla, especially Perilla frutescens, cultivated for its aromatic leaves and seeds.
Did you know?Perilla is closely related to mint, basil, and sage, and its leaves contain aromatic compounds that can smell minty, fruity, or even cinnamon-like depending on the variety.
Etymological Timeline
18th Century
New Latin
Perilla
“The botanical genus name assigned to this group of aromatic herbs.”
1763
New Latin
Perilla
“A genus established in botanical classification for the plant now commonly called perilla or shiso.”
19th Century
English
perilla
“A cultivated aromatic herb, especially the species Perilla frutescens.”
Modern English
English
perilla
“The herb used in East Asian cuisine, herbal products, and perilla seed oil.”