# Perilla frutescens (Shiso / Perilla)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/perilla-frutescens-shiso-perilla
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Perilla frutescens, Shiso, Japanese basil, Wild coleus, Beefsteak plant, Egoma, Zi su, Korean perilla

## Overview

Perilla frutescens contains rosmarinic acid and luteolin that inhibit NF-κB [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s and reduce histamine release from mast cells. This Japanese herb demonstrates immune-modulating effects through enhanced macrophage activity and suppression of allergic inflammatory responses.

## Health Benefits

- Boosts [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) by enhancing macrophage activity, which helps the body fight infections more effectively. - Reduces [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) through the inhibition of NF-kB pathways, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. - Supports respiratory health by decreasing histamine release, which can alleviate symptoms of allergies. - Improves mental clarity by increasing cerebral blood flow, enhancing [cognitive performance](/ingredients/condition/cognitive). - Aids digestion by promoting the secretion of [digestive enzyme](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)s, improving nutrient absorption. - Protects against [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by neutralizing free radicals, reducing cellular damage. - Enhances skin health by increasing [collagen production](/ingredients/condition/skin-health), leading to improved skin elasticity.

## Mechanism of Action

Perilla's rosmarinic acid and luteolin compounds suppress NF-κB transcription factor activation, reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production including TNF-α and IL-6. The herb's flavonoids stabilize mast cell membranes and inhibit histamine degranulation, while polyphenolic compounds enhance macrophage phagocytic activity through modulation of Toll-like receptor signaling pathways.

## Clinical Summary

Human studies on perilla extract (200-400mg daily) show 30-40% reduction in seasonal allergy symptoms over 4-8 week periods. A randomized controlled trial of 85 participants demonstrated significant decreases in [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers including C-reactive protein and IL-6 levels. Most research consists of small-scale trials (20-100 participants) with short durations, limiting long-term efficacy conclusions. Animal studies support immune-enhancing effects, but human data remains preliminary.

## Nutritional Profile

Per 100g of fresh Perilla frutescens leaves: Energy ~37 kcal; Protein ~3.1g; Total fat ~0.8g (notably rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in seed oil, comprising 54–64% of total fatty acids); Carbohydrates ~5.2g; Dietary fiber ~3.4g. Vitamins: Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) ~5,520 IU; Vitamin C ~55 mg; Vitamin K ~approximately 200–300 µg (estimated, significant source); Riboflavin (B2) ~0.34 mg; Niacin (B3) ~1.7 mg; Folate ~110 µg. Minerals: Calcium ~230 mg; Iron ~5.6 mg (non-heme, bioavailability enhanced by concurrent vitamin C content); Potassium ~508 mg; Magnesium ~61 mg; Phosphorus ~70 mg; Zinc ~1.1 mg; Manganese ~1.2 mg. Key bioactive compounds: Rosmarinic acid (major phenolic compound, approximately 1.0–4.5% of dry leaf weight, well-absorbed orally with [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)); Luteolin (~0.05–0.2% dry weight, a flavonoid with anti-allergic and NF-κB inhibitory properties); Apigenin (trace to ~0.05% dry weight); Perillaldehyde (primary monoterpene in essential oil, comprising 50–75% of leaf essential oil, responsible for characteristic aroma); Limonene and linalool (minor essential oil constituents); Perilla ketone (variable, present in some chemotypes, potentially toxic in livestock but minimal in culinary varieties); Caffeic acid (~0.1–0.3% dry weight); Anthocyanins, particularly malonyl-shisonin (~15–30 mg/100g in red/purple-leaved cultivars, contributing antioxidant activity; bioavailability moderate, enhanced by acidic conditions). Perilla seed oil per 100g: ALA (omega-3) ~54–64g; Linoleic acid (omega-6) ~12–17g; Oleic acid ~14–18g; Vitamin E (tocopherols) ~40–65 mg. Bioavailability notes: Rosmarinic acid is relatively well-absorbed in the GI tract and demonstrates rapid plasma appearance; ALA from perilla seed oil has moderate conversion (~5–10%) to EPA and limited conversion (<1%) to DHA in humans; iron is non-heme but the co-presence of vitamin C in the leaf enhances absorption; fat-soluble vitamins (A, K) benefit from co-consumption with dietary fat.

## Dosage & Preparation

Typical dosages range from 500 to 1000 mg per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Perilla frutescens is generally well-tolerated with mild gastrointestinal upset reported in some users at higher doses. The herb may enhance anticoagulant medication effects due to its omega-3 fatty acid content, requiring monitoring in patients taking warfarin. Individuals with bleeding disorders should exercise caution, as perilla may prolong bleeding time. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established through clinical studies.

## Scientific Research

Studies suggest Perilla frutescens has [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) effects. Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support its use for allergic conditions.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Traditionally, Perilla frutescens has been used in Japanese cuisine and medicine. It is valued for its aromatic leaves and seeds.

## Synergistic Combinations

Ginger, Turmeric, Green Tea

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of perilla frutescens extract?

Clinical studies typically use 200-400mg of standardized perilla extract daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Standardization to 2-4% rosmarinic acid content ensures therapeutic potency.

### How long does it take for perilla frutescens to work for allergies?

Most studies show initial improvements in allergy symptoms within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Peak benefits for respiratory health and reduced histamine response typically occur after 4-6 weeks of supplementation.

### Can perilla frutescens interact with blood thinning medications?

Yes, perilla contains omega-3 fatty acids that may enhance anticoagulant effects of warfarin and other blood thinners. Patients should consult healthcare providers before combining perilla with anticoagulant medications.

### What's the difference between perilla seed oil and perilla leaf extract?

Perilla seed oil provides omega-3 fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid) for cardiovascular benefits, while leaf extract contains rosmarinic acid and flavonoids for immune and anti-inflammatory effects. Most studies on respiratory health use leaf extracts.

### Is perilla frutescens safe for children with seasonal allergies?

While perilla shows promise for allergic conditions, pediatric safety data is limited. Children's dosing guidelines have not been established in clinical trials, making medical supervision essential before use.

### Does perilla frutescens help with anxiety and stress?

Perilla frutescens may support mental relaxation through its ability to increase cerebral blood flow and modulate neurotransmitter activity, particularly affecting serotonin pathways. While traditional Kampo medicine has used perilla for calming purposes, clinical evidence specifically measuring anxiety reduction remains limited, with most research focused on its anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties. Users interested in anxiety relief should view perilla as a complementary support rather than a primary treatment.

### Can I get sufficient perilla frutescens benefits from eating fresh shiso leaves in food?

Fresh shiso leaves contain many beneficial compounds including rosmarinic acid and other polyphenols, but the concentration is relatively dilute compared to standardized extracts used in clinical studies. Culinary amounts of shiso (typically small garnish portions) are unlikely to deliver the therapeutic doses shown effective for immune enhancement and allergy support in research. Regular consumption of shiso leaves can provide nutritional benefits, but therapeutic effects generally require concentrated supplement forms.

### How does perilla frutescens support immune function at the cellular level?

Perilla frutescens enhances immune function primarily by stimulating macrophage activity—specialized immune cells that identify and eliminate pathogens and cellular debris. Its rosmarinic acid and related compounds also inhibit NF-kB inflammatory pathways, which helps prevent excessive immune system activation while maintaining protective responses. This dual mechanism makes perilla particularly valuable for supporting balanced immunity rather than simply amplifying immune activity.

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