Q. The perilla oil diet is trending these days, and I'm thinking of giving it a try. Would you recommend it from a Korean Medicine perspective?

I once tried taking a spoonful of perilla oil every morning for my own health, but the persistent greasy sensation eventually made me stop. While perilla oil is an excellent ingredient, it is not a universal solution for everyone. Let’s look at the benefits first. The plant-based Omega-3 found in perilla oil is highly effective at resolving Blood Stasis (Eohyeol), essentially 'washing away' stagnant impurities in the blood. Improved circulation boosts metabolic efficiency, which supports weight loss. Additionally, the satiety provided by healthy fats helps curb 'false hunger.' However, there are clear precautions. Regardless of its quality, oil is fat and high in calories; excessive intake will lead to weight gain. Specifically, individuals with a Spleen Deficiency (Biheo) constitution—those with naturally weak digestive systems—may suffer from diarrhea or abdominal gas due to the accumulation of Phlegm-fluid (Dameum) when consuming oily substances. Furthermore, perilla oil oxidizes very rapidly. Consuming rancid oil is akin to putting toxins into your body. Before starting this regimen, consider if you typically feel bloated after oily meals. I recommend visiting a Korean Medicine clinic to check if your body’s Qi is flowing smoothly enough to process this specialized diet.