The plant oil extracted from the black seeds of Perilla frutescens represents an excellent source of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Compared with other vegetable oils, it is the richest source of omega-3 fatty acid: alpha acid linolenic (64%). It also brings omega-6 fatty acids: linoleic acid and omega 9 fatty acids: oleic acid. These different fatty acids mono and poly-unsaturated are the most beneficial for human health and help prevent various diseases. The richness of Perilla oil in alpha-linolenic acid is correlated with the fact that its administration increases cognitive function in adults and children. To identify the biochemical changes, an analysis of proteomic in the hippocampus was done in rats. It enabled to identify proteins playing a role in learning, memory and concentration. This differential expression of hippocampal proteins is related to transport energy metabolism, neuro-projection, and apoptosis. The diet based on Perilla oil (during a period of more than 3 weeks), promotes immunoreactivity, transmissions of neuronal signals in favor of learning and memory.
Saffron or 'red gold' is the most expensive food product in the world. The major metabolites of saffron are responsible for the color, flavor and aroma of saffron. Phenolic compounds are biologically active compounds in petals. Kaempferol, isolated from fresh flower petals, inhibits the oxidation of L-3,4-dihydrophenylanine (L-DOPA). Its activity comes from its ability to chelate copper in the enzyme. Tyrosinase catalyzes two synthetic reactions of melamine known as, a polyphenol oxidase, which causes the browning of food products. Its inhibition would have application in the food, medical and cosmetic fields. Saffron extracts are also known for their anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory action. But its main features are stress reduction and ward off feelings of depression. (the lifting of stress and mild to moderate depression phenomena.) Saffron is very rich in provitamin A, which plays a major role in treating eye and skin problems. It contains not only safranal but also crocin, picocrocin and mangocrocin.
Perilla oil with saffron can be used in the field of mild to moderate depression, burnout and stress. Unlike antidepressants generally prescribed in the cases mentioned above, there is no dependency treatment or predetermined length of treatment. The effect is almost immediate with no side effects.
About the speaker
Paul Grossin, currently Director of Laboratoires Salvia, has always been immersed in the world of plants and aromatherapy. Like his father Luc Grossin, a well-known aromatherapist, he thrives to improve food in schools, overall health and well-being. He has worked for more than 10 years in multinational companies.
Bibliographical references
Saita E, et al. Antioxidant activities of Perilla frutescens against low-density lipoprotein oxidation in vitro and in human subjects. J Oleo Sci. 2012;61(3):113-20
Li C-Y, Lee EJ et Wu T-S. Antityrosinase principles and constituents of the petals of Crocus sativus. J Nat Products. 2004; 67 (3): 437-440
Hosseinzadeh H. Younesi Hani M. Antinociceptive and anti-¬inflammatory effects of Crocus sativus L. stigma and petal extracts in mice. BMC pharmacology. 2002; 2 (1): 7
Abdullaev FI. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its possible role in the prevention of cancer.
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Li N, Lin G, Kwan Y-W et Min Z-D. Simultaneous quantification of five major biologically active ingredients of saffron by high-performance liquid chromatography. Journal of Chromatography. 1999; A, 849 (2):349--355.