In the current study the effects of proprietary Perilla frutescens leaf extract in comparison to Maltodextrin, a fully digestible carbohydrate (placebo control), on gastrointestinal discomfort and bowel function were investigated. The study was performed double-blind and placebo-controlled with a 4 week intervention period. Study products were taken two times daily (each one capsule before breakfast and dinner).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy volunteers without clinical diagnosed diseases with relevant effect on the gastrointestinal system or on visceral motility.
• BMI: 19-30 kg/m2
• Reduced bowel movements defined as an average of >1 and ≤ 3.5 stools per week for at least the previous 6 months
• Gastrointestinal symptoms of at least 5 points
• Male or female
• Age ≥ 30 and ≤ 70 years
• Nonsmoker
• Written consent to participate in the study
• Able and willing to follow the study protocol procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subject under prescription for medication for digestive symptoms such as anti-spasmodic, laxatives and anti-diarrheic drugs or other digestive auxiliaries
• Relevant history, presence of any medical disorder or intake of medication / dietary supplements, potentially interfering with this trial at screening
• Subjects with stool frequency of ≤ 1 stool every 7 days or > 3,5 stools per week
• Subjects not willing to avoid pre- and probiotics for the duration of the study
• Intake of antibiotics in the last 4 weeks and laxatives in the last 2 weeks
• Change of dietary habits within the 4 weeks prior to screening (for instance start of a diet high in fibers)
• Pregnant subject or subject planning to become pregnant during the study; breast-feeding subject.
• Subjects with history of drug, alcohol or other substances abuse, or other factors limiting their ability to co-operate during the study.
• Participants anticipating a change in their lifestyle or physical activity levels since this may also influence the results.
• Known food intolerance or allergy.
• Subject involved in any clinical or food study within the preceding month