Perilla Oil

Description

Perilla oil, extracted from the seeds of the perilla plant (Perilla frutescens), is a fragrant, flavorful, and omega-3-rich oil that has been used in East Asian cultures for centuries. Closely related to mint and basil, perilla is native to China, Korea, Japan, and parts of Southeast Asia, where both its leaves and oil are culinary and medicinal staples. With its high alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) content and distinct nutty-aromatic taste, perilla oil has recently gained popularity in global wellness and functional food circles.

Also known as “deulgireum” in Korea, perilla oil is extracted using cold-press or expeller-press methods, ensuring the preservation of delicate fatty acids and nutrients. The oil itself ranges from light golden to amber, with a characteristic grassy-nutty aroma and a flavor that resembles a fusion of sesame, basil, and roasted walnuts.

Nutritional Composition:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA): ~55–65%

• Omega-6 (linoleic acid): ~15–20%

• Omega-9 (oleic acid): ~12–15%

• Vitamin E (gamma- and alpha-tocopherols)

• Rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and lignans (powerful antioxidants)

• No cholesterol, low in saturated fat

Perilla oil contains one of the highest concentrations of ALA among edible oils, making it a superior vegan source of omega-3s, rivaled only by flaxseed and chia seed oils.

Health Benefits:

• Cardiovascular protection – reduces triglycerides and supports heart rhythm

• Anti-inflammatory action – aids conditions like asthma, arthritis, and eczema

• Supports cognitive health – may help with memory, brain fog, and mood balance

• Improves skin hydration and barrier function

• May reduce allergic responses – through antihistamine and immune-modulating effects

• Antioxidant protection – helps fight oxidative stress and premature aging

In Korean traditional medicine, perilla oil has long been used to relieve coughs, soothe digestion, and boost immunity. It is also believed to help clear heat and balance internal energies, particularly during seasonal transitions.

Culinary Uses:

Perilla oil has a low smoke point (~320°F / 160°C), making it unsuitable for high-heat cooking. However, it is ideal for low-heat and raw applications, such as:

• Drizzling over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables

• Seasoning Korean banchan (side dishes) like spinach (sigeumchi-namul)

• Enhancing grilled fish or tofu just before serving

• Flavoring kimchi or bibimbap bowls

• Making dipping sauces for dumplings or pancakes

• Infusing soups or broths after cooking

• Tossing with chilled soba, seaweed salad, or boiled potatoes

Its unique nut-herb profile pairs beautifully with soy sauce, garlic, sesame, citrus, and chili.

Koreans also mix it with sesame oil for depth or use it to season frying pans, where a light coating improves non-stick behavior and adds aroma.

Cosmetic and Topical Use:

Though not as well known as coconut or jojoba oil, perilla oil is gaining traction in natural skincare. It provides:

• Lightweight moisture for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin

• Anti-inflammatory effects for rosacea and eczema

• Omega-3 nourishment to restore the skin barrier

• Reduction in fine lines and age-related pigmentation

• Soothing scalp and hair treatments

Its non-greasy texture and rapid absorption make it ideal for serums, balms, and massage oils.

Storage and Shelf Life:

Due to its high ALA content, perilla oil is highly prone to oxidation. To maintain freshness:

• Store in a dark glass bottle

• Refrigerate after opening

• Use within 2–3 months once opened

• Always check for off-smells (a sign of rancidity)

Unopened bottles can last 6–9 months in a cool, dark place.

Sustainability:

Perilla is a resilient, fast-growing plant that thrives without excessive water or pesticides. It enriches soil and is part of traditional rotational cropping in Asian agriculture. The oil uses the seed by-product of leaf production, which makes it both efficient and eco-conscious.

Summary:

Perilla oil is a nutrient-dense, aromatic, and medicinal oil with a complex taste and a stellar omega-3 profile. It’s a culinary jewel in East Asian cuisine and a quiet superstar in holistic health and beauty. Whether you’re drizzling it over tofu, boosting your brain with omega-3s, or calming inflamed skin, perilla oil is an elegant, ancient solution in modern form.

Quantity is 2 bottles of 100ml each