Study Shows Herb Effective for Seasonal Allergies

by Michelle Schoffro Cook

The herb Perilla frutescens and the extract from the perilla leaf  have been found in numerous studies to be effective for the treatment of  allergies. In one study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine,  perilla and one of its active ingredients, rosmarinic extract were found to  ameliorate allergic inflammatory reactions including nasal and sinus congestion,  and eye irritation.

In another study published in Phytotherapy Research, Japanese  scientists at the Department of Kampo Medicinal Sciences, Hokkaido College of  Pharmacy, found that perilla was more effective than a drug used for allergies.  Another study published in the journal Food Chemical Toxicology showed  that perilla oil had a beneficial effect on asthmatic allergies.

Perilla leaf or perilla leaf extract are available from many health food  stores. Follow instructions on the package.

Adapted with permission from Allergy-Proof:  Over 60 All-Natural, Drug-Free Ways to Beat  Allergies by Michelle Schoffro Cook, PhD.