Perilla Seed Oil and Protein: Composition, Health Benefits, and Potential Applications in Functional Foods

Perilla (Perilla frutescens) seeds are emerging as a valuable resource for functional foods and medicines owing to their rich oil and protein content with diverse nutritional and health benefits. Perilla seed oil (PSO) possesses a high level of a-linolenic acid (ALA), a favorable ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acids, and other active ingredients such as tocopherols and phytosterols, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular protective effects.