Quick Summary

Perilla frutescens is a botanical used traditionally and investigated in clinical contexts such as allergies, metabolic diseases, and renal disorders. Clinical evidence suggests potential benefits in improving allergic rhinitis symptoms, adjunct treatment of diabetic nephropathy, and reducing proteinuria markers in IgA nephropathy animal models. However, high-quality human clinical evidence remains limited, and safety data are not yet conclusive.

What is it?

Perilla, scientifically known as Perilla frutescens, is an herb belonging to the mint family. It is widely used in traditional East Asian medicine and cuisine. The plant contains various bioactive compounds that have attracted interest for their potential health effects.

Traditional Uses

Traditionally, Perilla has been used for its purported anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. It is often applied in folk medicine to relieve symptoms of respiratory allergies, support metabolic health, and manage kidney-related disorders.

Active Compounds

Perilla contains several active compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, rosmarinic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids. These constituents are thought to contribute to its biological effects, though the precise mechanisms remain under study.

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Adjunct treatment in diabetic nephropathy (Moderate evidence): A 2026 meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials involving 1,333 patients found that Jinlida granules—including Perilla components—improved renal function markers as well as glucose and lipid metabolism, without increasing adverse events compared to controls.
  • Improvement of allergic rhinitis symptoms in children (Moderate evidence): A 2025 prospective randomized trial indicated that a Perilla-based nutraceutical combined with antihistamines improved nasal inflammation biomarkers and symptoms better than antihistamines alone in pediatric allergic rhinitis.
  • Reduction of proteinuria markers in IgA nephropathy (Preclinical evidence): A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of rat models reported that Perilla extracts reduced proteinuria and cellular proliferation markers in IgA nephropathy animal models.

Side Effects

Mild gastrointestinal symptoms have been reported sporadically in clinical studies, but no severe or consistent adverse effects have been identified in available human trials. Overall, current evidence suggests a favorable safety profile, though data are limited.

Drug Interactions

No clinical studies explicitly addressing drug interactions with Perilla or Perilla-containing preparations were identified. Caution is advised when combining Perilla with other medications until more information is available.

Who Should Avoid It

Specific contraindications for Perilla have not been established due to insufficient evidence. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been studied; therefore, pregnant or lactating individuals should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before use.

Evidence Limitations

  • Lack of large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials evaluating Perilla frutescens alone.
  • Many studies involve Perilla as part of multi-herb formulas or nutraceutical combinations, making it difficult to isolate Perilla-specific effects.
  • Clinical evidence mainly pertains to allergic rhinitis and diabetic nephropathy adjunctive therapy; other uses rely on preclinical data or traditional practice.
  • Safety data are incomplete; adverse effects have not been systematically studied across diverse populations.
  • No data available on drug interactions or use in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women.

References

  1. Dai B et al. Efficacy and safety of Jinlida granules as an adjuvant treatment for diabetic nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. 2026. PMC12946738, PMID: 41767388, DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2026.1740623
  2. Gori A et al. Synergic efficacy of a multicomponent nutraceutical add-on therapy in seasonal allergic rhinitis in children: a prospective, randomized, parallel-group study. 2025. PMC11900512, PMID: 40094983, DOI: 10.3390/jcm14051517
  3. Adam G et al. The Effects of Perilla frutescens Extracts on IgA Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. 2023. PMC10385934, PMID: 37513901, DOI: 10.3390/ph16070988
  4. Adam G et al. Applications of Perilla frutescens extracts in clinical practice. 2023. PMC10045045, PMID: 36978975, DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030727
  5. Jeong K et al. Advancing allergen characterization in Perilla seed: an oil body purification approach. 2026. PMC12882140, PMID: 41618458, DOI: 10.1186/s13223-026-01012-6

Last Reviewed

April 2024

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new herbal supplement, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.