Limited evidenceImmunity

Perilla Leaf Extract

A rosmarinic-acid-rich leaf extract studied for seasonal allergies. One small human trial is positive, but most later evidence comes from multi-ingredient products, so perilla's own contribution is unclear.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

What the science says

Seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis Limited evidence
A small placebo-controlled study in 29 people found a rosmarinic-acid-enriched Perilla extract reduced eye and nose symptoms over about three weeks. It has never been replicated as a single ingredient.
Multi-ingredient allergy products Limited evidence
A polycentric randomized parallel-group study in children found a nutraceutical containing Perilla extract, quercetin and zinc reduced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms. With three actives combined, the benefit cannot be attributed to perilla.
Herbal allergy treatments overall Limited evidence
A systematic review of herbal medicines for allergic rhinitis concluded that trials in this field are generally small and methodologically weak, which applies to the perilla literature too.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseThe positive trial used an extract supplying roughly 50–200 mg of rosmarinic acid daily. Commercial capsules commonly provide 50–100 mg of standardized perilla extract.

SafetyWell tolerated in the short trials. Perilla seed is itself a recognised food allergen and contact dermatitis has been reported with occupational exposure, so people with mint-family allergies should be cautious. No data in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Extract of Perilla frutescens enriched for rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic phytochemical, inhibits seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in humans
Takano H, Osakabe N, Sanbongi C — Exp Biol Med (Maywood), 2004
A polycentric, randomized, parallel-group, study on Lertal®, a multicomponent nutraceutical, as preventive treatment in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: phase II
Marseglia G, Licari A, Leonardi S — Ital J Pediatr, 2019
Herbal medicines for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a systematic review
Guo R, Pittler MH, Ernst E — Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol, 2007

Where to buy

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