Perilla oil, derived from the seeds of Perilla frutescens, contains high amounts of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. Its use in supporting or treating Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is primarily based on its anti-inflammatory properties. Some scientific studies, mainly in animal models, have demonstrated that perilla oil supplementation can reduce inflammatory markers and ameliorate colitis symptoms. For example, studies in mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis have shown that perilla oil reduces colon inflammation, decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines, and improves histological outcomes.

Human data are extremely limited, with only a few small clinical studies or pilot trials suggesting possible benefits, such as improved bowel symptoms or reduced markers of inflammation. The evidence is not robust or consistent, and no major clinical guidelines recommend perilla oil as a standard therapy for IBD. The potential mechanism, attributed to omega-3 fatty acids, is similar to that of fish oil, which has also shown mixed results in clinical trials for IBD.

Overall, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, the quality and quantity of human research are low, justifying a modest evidence rating. More rigorous and larger-scale clinical investigations are needed to confirm perilla oil’s efficacy in IBD.