Perilla oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the seeds of Perilla frutescens, an aromatic herb in the mint family native to Asia and commonly known as shiso or beefsteak plant. It has traditionally been used in East Asian cuisine, particularly in Korea, and is also available as a supplement.
Perilla oil is particularly rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own. It also contains other unsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, and vitamin E compounds called tocopherols.
People take perilla oil to support heart health, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and promote a healthy inflammatory response. It has also been studied for its potential antioxidant and other health benefits.