Health effects of omega-3,6,9 fatty acids: Perilla frutescens is a good example of plant oils

Abstract

Perilla frutescens seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The seeds of perilla are small end globular weight about 4 g/1000, contained approximately 35-45% oil. However the leaves are a very poor source of oil, since they contain only 0.2%. In addition, only the seed oil contains the omega 3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). In comparing to other plant oils, perilla seed oil consistently contains the one of the highest proportion of omega-3 (ALA) fatty acids, at 54-64%. The omega-6 (linoleic acid) component is usually around 14% and omega-9 (Oleic acid) is also present in perilla oil. These polyunsaturated fatty acids are most beneficial to human health and in prevention of different diseases like cardiovascular disorders, cancer, inflammatory, rheumatoid arthritis etc.

Graph 1

Gas Chromatography report of perilla frutescens seeds oil

Fig. 1

Zigzag configuration of unsaturated stearic acid (18 C)

Fig. 2

Configuration of monosaturated oleic acid (C 18)

Fig. 3

Geometrical isomerism of unsaturated fatty acids

Fig 4

Numbering of carbon atoms in fatty acids

Fig. 5

Structure of alfa linolenic acid (ALA) arachidonic acid (AA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) prostaglandin (PGE) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)