Comprehensive Review of Perilla Frutescens: Chemical Composition, Pharmacological Mechanisms, and Industrial Applications in Food and Health Products

Perilla frutescens is a multifunctional plant with significant potential in health and food industries due to its rich bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and essential oils. These compounds exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties. The plant's essential oils and extracts are used in food preservation and as natural antibacterial agents. Notably, rosmarinic acid promotes hair growth and may treat androgenetic alopecia by inhibiting testosterone and DHT activity. Perilla frutescens also shows potential in treating conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and SARS-CoV-2, and its seed oil is a valuable source of omega-3 fatty acids. The review emphasizes the need for safety evaluations and clinical studies to further understand its bioactive compounds and enhance its applications in pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and sustainable industries.