PERILLA FRUTESCENS LEAF EXTRACT 4:1

Perilla frutescens, commonly known as Perilla or Shiso, is an herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Originating from Southeast Asia and India, it has been widely cultivated in Korea, Japan, China, and Vietnam for centuries, where it has been deeply integrated into both traditional medicine and culinary practices. The extract, typically derived from the nutrient-rich leaves, is concentrated to a 4:1 ratio, meaning four parts of raw plant material are used to yield one part of the potent extract. This meticulous concentration method ensures a significantly higher potency of the plant's beneficial compounds compared to crude leaf powder. Perilla extract is characterized by its distinct aromatic profile and a rich phytochemical composition, which collectively contribute to its diverse therapeutic properties. Its increasing adoption in dietary supplements underscores a growing scientific and consumer interest in its multifaceted health-promoting effects, making it a valuable ingredient for modern formulations.

Perilla frutescens is renowned for its diverse array of bioactive compounds, including a rich profile of polyphenols, flavonoids, triterpenes, and essential fatty acids, notably alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a crucial omega-3 fatty acid. Key phenolic compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, luteolin, and apigenin, are central to its observed health benefits. Scientific research indicates these compounds exert potent antioxidant effects by effectively scavenging free radicals and mitigating oxidative stress, a primary driver in the pathogenesis of various chronic diseases. Furthermore, Perilla extract has demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties, primarily through the modulation of intricate inflammatory pathways. This includes the inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, alongside the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine production, such as TNF-alpha and IL-6. Studies have also highlighted its potential in supporting respiratory health, particularly in modulating immune responses associated with seasonal allergies by influencing histamine release and mast cell stabilization, as evidenced by preclinical and some human studies.

Perilla frutescens leaf extract 4:1 is a highly versatile ingredient, ideal for incorporation into various supplement formulations, including capsules, tablets, and functional beverages, with primary applications targeting immune support, respiratory health, and systemic anti-inflammatory benefits. The use of a standardized extract form is crucial as it ensures consistent potency and predictable efficacy, which are paramount for product reliability and consumer trust. Quality considerations for this ingredient are stringent, encompassing responsible sourcing from reputable cultivators, adherence to sustainable and efficient extraction methods, and rigorous third-party testing for purity, heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial contaminants to meet stringent global regulatory standards. Clinical research, such as a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, has investigated the efficacy of Perilla leaf extract in human subjects, demonstrating its capacity to alleviate symptoms associated with seasonal allergies by modulating specific inflammatory markers. Further evidence supports its role in gut health due to its anti-inflammatory actions within the gastrointestinal tract, contributing to a balanced immune response. The scientific community continues to explore its potential in metabolic health and cognitive function, building upon its established traditional uses and emerging research.