Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Perilla (Perilla frutescens), commonly known as shiso, has been used in traditional East Asian medicine for various ailments, including skin conditions such as eczema. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Korean folk medicine incorporate perilla leaves and seed oil for their purported anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. The rationale behind its use for eczema stems from its historical reputation for "dispelling wind" and alleviating itching and inflammation. In TCM, perilla is believed to support lung and skin health, both of which are considered relevant to eczema's etiology.

While there is a growing interest in perilla's bioactive compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and luteolin, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in vitro and in animal studies, human clinical evidence remains limited. A few small studies and case reports suggest perilla oil supplementation may help improve skin barrier function and reduce itching, but these findings are preliminary and not robust enough for widespread clinical endorsement. Most of the support for perilla in eczema management is thus rooted in traditional practices rather than rigorous scientific validation.

In summary, perilla's use for eczema is primarily justified by traditional medicine, with some emerging but modest scientific interest. Until larger, well-controlled human studies are conducted, perilla should be considered a traditional remedy rather than an evidence-based treatment for eczema.

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