Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
An omega-3-rich seed from an Asian herb that helps support heart health, reduce allergic responses, and fight inflammation.
CategorySeed
GroupSeed
Evidence LevelStrong
Synergy Pairings4
Health Benefits
Supports cardiovascular health through its high alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) content, balancing cholesterol levels.
Enhances cognitive function and neuroprotection due to omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant compounds.
Modulates immune resilience by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
Promotes respiratory wellness by traditionally soothing conditions like asthma and coughs.
Aids digestive health by supporting gut microbiota and alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort.
Provides skin vitality through antioxidants and essential fatty acids that combat oxidative stress.
Origin & History
Perilla frutescens, commonly known as Perilla, is an annual herb native to East Asia, particularly China, Japan, and Korea. It thrives in temperate climates, commonly found in fields and gardens, and is valued for its distinctive flavor and rich omega-3 fatty acid content.
“Deeply rooted in East Asian culinary and medicinal traditions, Perilla has long been celebrated in Korea, Japan, and China for its distinctive flavor and versatile healing properties. It was traditionally used to promote longevity, respiratory health, and digestive balance.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Studies confirm the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties of Perilla frutescens, highlighting its bioactive compounds like rosmarinic acid and omega-3 ALA. Research also supports its traditional uses for respiratory and immune modulation.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional use
Brewed as a tea or used in herbal decoctions for allergies, asthma, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Modern forms
Raw seeds, perilla oil, powdered extract, culinary ingredient in wraps, soups, and salads.
Dosage
500–1000 mg standardized seed extract daily
10–20 grams of seeds daily, 1–2 teaspoons of oil per day, or .
Nutritional Profile
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, omega-3 fatty acid)
- Rosmarinic acid
- Flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin)
- Carotenoids (lutein)
- Plant sterols
- Dietary fiber
- Essential minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium)
- Vitamins (A, C)
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Fat + fiber base
Cardio & Circulation | Cognition & Focus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perilla Seed?
Perilla Seed comes from Perilla frutescens, an herb in the mint family widely used in East Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. It is one of the richest plant sources of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, and also contains rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and apigenin — compounds with anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
What is the recommended dosage of Perilla Seed?
General wellness: 10-20g of whole seeds or 1-2 teaspoons of perilla oil daily. For anti-allergic or anti-inflammatory support: 500-1000 mg of standardized extract daily. Some clinical studies have used 150 mg of rosmarinic acid-enriched perilla extract daily. Take with meals for best absorption.
How does Perilla Seed oil compare to flaxseed oil for omega-3?
Both are excellent plant sources of ALA omega-3. Perilla oil contains approximately 54-64% ALA, comparable to or slightly higher than flaxseed oil (50-60% ALA). Perilla seed additionally provides rosmarinic acid with demonstrated anti-allergic properties, which flaxseed does not. Both have the same limitation of low conversion to EPA and DHA in the body.
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