Perilla seed extract improves allergy symptoms Approximately 50 million Americans suffer from allergic conditions such as hay fever or asthma that negatively impact their quality of life. Allergic conditions may involve mild to severe symptoms of congestion or runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, skin rash or hives, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or fatigue. Conventional allergy treatment often includes the use of prescription antihistamines or decongestants or over-the-counter medications that may cause unwanted side effects such as drowsiness or hyperactivity. In search of a natural alternative, researchers conducted a study on the effectiveness of perilla seed extract in treating 20 allergic patients suffering from symptoms of sneezing, stuffy nose, and itchy eyes and skin. For two weeks, patients were given 50 mg of perilla extract twice a day if they weighed under 60 lbs., and three times a day if they weighed over 60 lbs. After the two-week period, patients evaluated changes in their allergic symptoms. In addition, two patients were selected to have their IgE (i.e., type of antibody produced during an allergic reaction) levels measured before and after perilla seed extract administration. Following treatment, patients demonstrated a marked reduction in allergic symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy nose, and itchy eyes. A significant suppression of IgE levels in two patients provided further evidence that perilla seed extract may inhibit an allergic response. These findings suggest that perilla seed extract may be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of allergic disorders. SOURCE: Food & Dev 1997;32(9);41-43. Full article in Japanese. Advanced Nutrition Publications ©2002
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