noun
egoma; wild sesame; oilseed perilla
An annual herb in the mint family, cultivated for its seeds and oil. Often contrasted with 紫蘇 (shiso), which is a different variety of the same species.
See also: 紫蘇
エゴマの葉は焼き肉を包むのに使われる。
Egoma leaves are used to wrap grilled meat.
エゴマ油にはオメガ3脂肪酸が豊富
Egoma oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Shiso is a different variety of the same species (Perilla frutescens var. crispa), with a stronger flavor and more common use as a herb. Egoma is primarily grown for its seeds and oil.
The Japanese name えごま is of uncertain origin. The kanji 荏胡麻 are ateji (phonetic equivalents) and not commonly used.