Pharmacological effects, classification, genetic and molecular studies of different chemotypes essential oil of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt.: A review.

Abstract

Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton is a highly valuable medicinal plant known for a wide variety of chemotypes based on the components of its essential oils. The appropriate and secure medicinal use of P. frutescens has been severely limited due to the lack of chemotype classification standards and pharmacological studies. In this paper, a classification standard for essential oils in P. frutescens was proposed. The pharmacological activities of different chemotypes or their main components were summarized. Genetic and molecular studies related to the formation of different chemotypes were also reviewed. The molecular mechanism underlying the formation of P. frutescens chemotypes is also discussed to pave the way for the innovation of P. frutescens germplasms for medicinal use.