Perilla Oil

Perilla oil is obtained from the seeds or leaves of perennial herbs, that belong to the genus Perilla. There are various species included in the genus, however, perilla oil most commonly comes from Perilla frutescens. Native to India, China and Japan, this member of the mint family is known for the several health benefits it offers. It is also known by other names such as purple mint, Chinese basil, shiso and wild coleus. The oil extracted from the leaves of perilla, by the process of steam distillation, is rich in a variety of chemical compounds, which may vary depending on the species. The main chemical which is present in large concentration and responsible for the aroma and taste of perilla is perillaldehyde. Some other terpenes included in perilla are limonene, farnesene and caryophyllene.

Perilla Oil Benefits
This oil is used for several purposes and has a number of health benefits. People in some parts of the world use perilla for cooking, as a drying oil and as a fuel as well.

Oil obtained from Perilla frutescens is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is a type of omega-3 essential fatty acids. When we consume perilla oil, our body converts the alpha-linolenic acid into the two most prominent omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. I hope you are aware of the several EPA DHA benefits on our body. Omega 3 provided by perilla seed oil has proven to be beneficial for our body in the following ways:

• Reduces the risk of breast and colon cancer, heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases
• Reduces symptoms and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, colitis, atherosclerosis and many other auto-immune diseases
• Inhibits cardiac arrhythmia and abnormal blood clotting
• Reduces the severity of various allergies
• Helps in fighting obesity
• Enhances memory and concentration
• Protects against various mental abnormalities and provides neurological benefits

These were some of the benefits of perilla oil associated with its omega-3 acid content. The oil is known to have anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory and tumor preventing properties. It also helps in reducing the cholesterol levels and thus reduces the risk of several health hazards. The use of perilla oil for acne is known since long. It is rich in omega-3, that soothes, repairs and provides powerful antioxidant protection for mature and aging skin. On regular use of this oil, the skin becomes clearer, calmer and toned with a refreshed look.

Dosage
The appropriate dosage of perilla depends on several factors including the age of the person and his health conditions. A daily intake of 6,000 is recommended, which provides 3.3 grams of omega-3 essential oil. However, one should avoid the consumption of any dietary supplement without consulting a medical care provider.

Perilla Oil Side Effects
This cooking oil has blood thinning effects and is not recommended for people taking anticoagulants and other blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin. Although there are a number of benefits for the skin, it can cause skin rash and allergic reactions in some people. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid the use of perilla oil.

It is important to note that this supplement must be complemented with adequate amounts of other nutrients, for maximum metabolic regulation in the body. Dietary fibers can absorb both good as well as bad fatty acids and hence, perilla oil should be taken at a different time than fiber.