Perillene is a naturally occurring monoterpene found in the essential oils of Perilla frutescens, noted for its potential antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor properties. 

Chemical Structure and Properties

Perillene (C₁₀H₁₄O, MW 150.22) consists of a furan ring substituted at the 3-position with a 4-methylpent-3-enyl side chain, giving the IUPAC name 3-(4-methylpent-3-enyl)furan. Its structure features a conjugated system contributing to volatility and reactivity, with InChI key XNGKCOFXDHYSGR-UHFFFAOYSA-N.

The compound's lipophilicity and furan moiety enable interactions in biological membranes and potential as a flavoring agent.

Natural Sources and Extraction

Perillene occurs primarily in Perilla frutescens (shiso or beefsteak plant), native to Asia and naturalized elsewhere, extracted via steam distillation of leaves where it forms a key volatile component.

Concentrations vary by chemotype, supporting culinary uses in Asian cuisine to prevent food spoilage.