Perilla frutescens
What's the taxonomical classification of Perilla frutescens?
Perilla frutescens belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within this lineage, it is categorized under the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae. The plant's taxonomic progression continues through the order Lamiales and the family Lamiaceae. Finally, it is identified by its specific genus, Perilla, and its unique species designation, frutescens.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Perilla |
| Species | frutescens |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Periella frutescens has an erect, herbaceous growth habit characterized by square stems, opposite leaves, and small, labiate flowers arranged in terminal racemes. The leaves are typically ovate to triangular with serrated margins and can exhibit a wide range of colors including green, purple, or dark reddish hues. These leaves often possess a distinctive wrinkled or rugose texture on the upper surface. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are predominantly white or light purple. Once pollination occurs, the plant develops small, nutlet-like seeds that are essential for its reproduction.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is native to East Asia, specifically concentrated in regions such as China, Japan, Korea, and parts of Southeast Asia. It thrives in temperate and subtropical climates where it can find well-drained soil and ample sunlight. While its origins are strictly Asian, it has been introduced to various other parts of the world through human cultivation for culinary and medicinal purposes. In some non-native environments, it can become naturalized in gardens and disturbed sites. Its distribution is largely dictated by its preference for warm, humid growing seasons.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
Periellafrutescens contains medicinal compounds primarily located in its leaves and seeds. The leaves are frequently harvested to create infusions or extracts used for treating respiratory issues and digestive discomfort. These foliage parts are rich in essential oils and rosmarinic acid which provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Meanwhile, the seeds are utilized for their high oil content and are often processed into supplements to support cardiovascular health. Both the seeds and leaves serve as the principal components in various traditional herbal remedies.
What are the pharmacological activities of Perilla frutescens?
This plant has diverse pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, and immunomodulatory properties. Its high concentration of polyphenols and essential oils allows it to effectively neutralize free radicals and reduce systemic inflammation. The botanical extracts demonstrate significant inhibitory effects against various pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, research indicates that its bioactive compounds can suppress cancer cell proliferation and regulate immune system responses. These multifaceted therapeutic mechanisms make Perilla frutescens a valuable subject for developing new medicinal treatments.
As discussed in a study, Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. (Lamiaceae) is a traditionally medicinal herb used in East Asian countries to treat various diseases. Researchers investigated the low-polarity constituents of the aerial parts of P. frutescens to assay their anti-inflammatory effect on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Through extensive spectroscopic analysis and a single-crystal X-ray diffraction study, three new furanoiid monoterpenoids named frutescenones A-C (1-3) and thirteen known compounds (4-16) were isolated and identified. Specifically, component 1 is an unusual monoterpenoid with a 2,3'-bifuran skeleton, and component 3 is a rare perillaketone-adenine hybrid heterodimer. Furthermore, monoterpenoid 4 and alkaloid 15 showed a remarkably inhibitory effect on the production of inflammatory mediator (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and/or IL-6) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the medicinal compounds Rosmarinic acid, Perilla ketone, Apiin, Luteolin, and Scutellarein. These bioactive molecules contribute to the plant's diverse pharmacological profile and therapeutic potential. Rosmarinic acid and luteolin are known for providing significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The presence of apiin and scutellarein further enhances the biological activity of the botanical extracts. Additionally, perilla ketone serves as a specialized component within its chemical makeup.
As discussed in a study, Perilla frutescens contains medicinal ingredients including perillaldehhyde and rosmarinic acid. The perillaldehhyde concentration in red Perilla frutescens was measured in mg g-1, though its total accumulation in mg per plant increased as dry leaf weight increased. For green Perilla frutescens, perillaldehhyde concentrations showed significant differences between the combination of the highest PPFD and highest EC and the combination of the lowest PPFD and lowest EC. Rosmarinic acid concentration, measured in mg g-1, was increased under a combination of low EC and high PPFD conditions. These secondary metabolites were studied across PPFD values of 100, 200, and 300 μmol m-2 s-1 and EC values of 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 dS m-1.
What health problems is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating asthma, allergies, inflammation, gastrointestinal discomfort, and vomiting. Its natural compounds help reduce airway constriction and allergic reactions in the respiratory system. The herb also possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that soothe bodily tissues. In the digestive tract, it acts as a remedy for gastrointestinal discomfort and can effectively suppress vomiting. These therapeutic effects make it a versatile tool in traditional medicine for managing various systemic ailments.
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant can be prepared as an infusion using the leaves, a decoction from the seeds or roots, an essential oil extracted via distillation, a tincture made with alcohol, a fine powder from dried material, or a concentrated extract. The infusion serves as a gentle tea often used to soothe digestive discomfort. For more robust applications, a decoction is simmered to release the medicinal properties of tougher plant parts. The essential oil provides a highly concentrated aromatic essence used in topical or aromatherapy settings. Tinctures and extracts offer potent, shelf-stable liquid doses for standardized herbal treatment. Finally, the ground powder allows for easy incorporation into foods or capsules.
The main herbal preparations of this plant are shown in the list below.
- Infusion
- Decoction
- Essential oil
- Tincture
- Powder
- Extract
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause allergic reactions, nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. People with sensitivities to the Lamiaceae family may experience skin rashes or respiratory issues upon contact or ingestion. Some users report feeling lightheaded or experiencing a sense of dizziness after consuming concentrated extracts. Digestive discomfort, such as nausea and general gastrointestinal upset, is another common concern for those sensitive to its oils. It is important to monitor how your body reacts to any part of the plant to avoid these adverse effects.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Gastrointestinal upset