Antimicrobial activity of perilla seed polyphenols against oral pathogenic bacteria.

A perilla seed (Perilla frutescens Britton var. japonica Hara) extract was examined for its antimicrobial activity against oral cariogenic streptococci and periodontopathic Porphyromonas gingivalis. Luteolin, one of the components of perilla seed, showed the strongest antimicrobial effect among the phenolic compounds. According to our results, perilla seed may be the source of an antimicrobial agent that could prevent dental caries and periodontal diseases.