Can pregnant women consume perilla seed oil?

In general, pregnant women can consume perilla seed oil, but should do so in moderation. The details are as follows:

Perilla seed oil is a nutrient-rich, healthy edible oil containing various beneficial components. Among them, alpha-linolenic acid—an essential unsaturated fatty acid for the human body—offers health benefits for both pregnant women and their developing fetuses. Alpha-linolenic acid can be converted into DHA in the body, playing an important role in promoting fetal brain and visual development. Additionally, perilla seed oil may help enhance the pregnant woman's immune system, promote postpartum milk production, and potentially reduce the occurrence of stretch marks. However, pregnant women should consume it in moderation, as excessive intake may affect the digestive system. Although perilla seed oil is generally mild in nature, pregnant women with excessive internal heat or yin deficiency should use it cautiously. Moreover, perilla seed oil is prone to oxidation when heated; it is therefore recommended to consume it unheated—for example, by adding it to salads or mixing it into yogurt.

Pregnant women should maintain a balanced and diverse diet, eat smaller meals more frequently, and consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. They should avoid spicy, stimulating, raw, or cold foods. Adequate rest should be ensured, strenuous exercise avoided, and regular prenatal check-ups at the hospital conducted to ensure proper maternal health care throughout pregnancy.