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Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw?

How Do You Eat Perilla Leaves?

Perilla leaves, also known as shiso leaves or Japanese basil, are commonly used in many cuisines for their herbaceous and slightly minty flavor.

Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw

Below are a few ways on how to enjoy perilla leaves:

Raw as a Salad

Perilla leaves can be consumed raw in salads.

Wash the perilla leaves thoroughly with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces and mix them with other salad greens, such as arugula, spinach, or lettuce.

Drizzle your favorite salad dressing on top and enjoy.

Fried With Tempura Batter

In Japanese cuisine, perilla leaves are often fried in tempura batter.

Prepare the tempura batter by mixing flour, cornstarch, baking powder, ice water, and egg yolk in a bowl.

Dip the perilla leaves into the batter and fry them until golden brown.

Pickled Perilla Leaves

Pickling is another way to enjoy perilla leaves.

In Korea and Japan, pickled perilla leaves are served as a side dish or a condiment.

To make pickled perilla leaves, mix rice vinegar, salt, sugar, water and sliced ginger in a jar until dissolved.

Add washed and dried perilla leaves into the jar and let them sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.

No matter how you choose to eat perilla leaves, always remember to wash them properly before consuming them raw or cooked.

Are all perilla leaves edible?

Perilla, also known as Shiso in Japanese or Kkaennip in Korean, is a popular ingredient in East Asian cuisine.

The leaves of the plant are often used in recipes to add a distinct flavor to the dishes.

However, not all perilla leaves are edible, and some varieties may be toxic.

Edible Varieties of Perilla Leaves

The two main types of perilla that are commonly consumed are green perilla and purple perilla.

Both varieties have broad, aromatic leaves that add flavor and color to dishes.

  • Green Perilla: This variety has bright green leaves with a slightly sweet taste.
  • It is often used in Korean cuisine for making kimchi or wrapping grilled meat.
  • Purple Perilla: Also known as Red Shiso, this has purplish-red leaves with a slightly bitter taste.
  • It is commonly used in Japanese cuisine to color umeboshi or pickled plums.

Non-Edible Varieties of Perilla Leaves

Not all varieties of perilla are safe to eat.

Some species may contain toxic components that can cause adverse health effects if ingested.

  • Wild Sesame Leaf: This plant looks similar to green perilla but has serrated edges on the leaves.
  • It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage if consumed in large quantities.
  • Coleus Barbatum: This plant is often mistaken for perilla due to its similar appearance.
  • However, it contains forskolin which can lower blood pressure and cause headaches or dizziness if consumed excessively.

Conclusion

If you intend to use perilla as an ingredient in your cooking, make sure that you only use the edible varieties such as green or purple perilla.

Always check the label before buying any products containing perilla extract and avoid using non-edible species of the plant.

Perilla is generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts; however, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare provider before consuming any new food item, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or allergies.

How do Japanese Eat Perilla Leaves?

Perilla leaves have been used in Japanese cuisine for centuries.

In Japan, perilla is known as shiso and is a common ingredient in many traditional dishes.

Here are some ways the Japanese eat perilla leaves:

Sashimi and Sushi

The Japanese love to add a touch of green to their sashimi and sushi using perilla leaves.

They usually place a single leaf on top of a slice of fish before wrapping it in rice or serving it as sashimi.

The aromatic flavor of perilla complements the freshness of raw fish, making it a popular addition.

Tempura

In Japan, perilla leaves can be found deep-fried in tempura batter.

The crispiness of the tempura batter combined with the herbaceous flavor of perilla makes for a delicious snack or appetizer.

Pickled Perilla

Another popular way to eat perilla in Japan is by pickling the leaves.

Pickled perilla is served as a side dish and can also be used as an accompaniment to rice dishes.

Miso Soup

Perilla leaves are also used to add depth and flavor to miso soup – a traditional Japanese soup made with miso paste, tofu, seaweed and other ingredients such as vegetables or seafood.

Overall, it’s safe to say that the Japanese appreciate perilla for its versatile flavor that can add depth to many different dishes.

Is perilla safe to eat?

Perilla leaves are an important ingredient in many Asian cuisines, and they have been enjoyed for their unique taste and several health benefits for centuries.

But is it safe to consume perilla leaves?

Possible side effects of perilla consumption

In some cases, consuming perilla leaves may cause an allergic reaction, especially in individuals who are sensitive to plants in the mint family, such as basil or oregano.

Symptoms of a perilla allergy may include hives, itching, swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and abdominal pain.

Additionally, some people may experience gastrointestinal distress after eating perilla leaves due to the high content of tannins found in the plant.

Tannins can cause stomach upset or constipation when consumed in large amounts.

The controversy surrounding perilla leaf

While perilla has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb in traditional Eastern medicine practices, researchers have cautioned against using it without proper consultation with a healthcare professional.

This is because some studies have indicated that long-term consumption of high doses of perilla extracts may be linked to an increased risk of certain cancers.

The health benefits of perilla leaf

Despite these concerns, there are many potential health benefits associated with the use of perilla leaves.

For example:

  • Perilla is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that possess antioxidant properties which help to protect cells from oxidative damage.
  • The leaves contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease.
  • Perilla has antibacterial properties and has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as E.coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusion

When consumed in moderation and by individuals without allergies or sensitivities to the plant, perilla can provide numerous health benefits.

However it is always best to check first with your medical practitioner before adding new foods (or supplements) into your diet if you have concerns about its safety or effectiveness.

How do Koreans Eat Perilla Leaves?

Perilla leaves, also known as “kkaennip” in Korean, are a popular ingredient in Korean cuisine.

Here are some ways that Koreans use perilla leaves:

Perilla Leaf Kimchi

Koreans love kimchi, and perilla leaf kimchi is one of the popular variations.

To make perilla leaf kimchi, the leaves are first salted and then seasoned with a mixture of chili powder, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and other ingredients.

The finished dish pairs well with rice, meat dishes or soups.

Perilla Leaf Wraps

Perilla leaves make for great edible wraps! Simply place cooked or raw vegetables and/or meat on a perilla leaf and roll it up.

The result is a deliciously flavoured bite.

It can also be paired with ssamjang (a dipping sauce) for added taste.

Perilla Leaf Pancakes

In Korea, Perilla Leaf Pancake is known as kkaennip-jeon.

To make pancakes, chopped perilla leaves are added to a batter made from flour, eggs and water/others to form small patties which are then pan-fried in oil until crispy.

Regardless of how they are eaten, Korean perilla leaves have become a sought-after superfood due to their health benefits such as reducing inflammation and boosting immune system function.

However it should be noted that some people may have an allergic reaction to perilla leaves so consult your doctor before consuming it regularly!

What are the side effects of perilla?

Perilla leaves have been used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries.

The herb is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

However, there are some potential side effects of consuming perilla leaves that you should be aware of.

Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw

Allergic Reactions

Perilla leaves contain compounds that may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

These reactions can range from mild symptoms like itching and hives to severe symptoms such as anaphylaxis.

If you experience symptoms like difficulty breathing, swelling, or chest tightness after eating perilla leaves, seek medical attention immediately.

Bleeding Disorders

Some research suggests that perilla leaves may interfere with blood clotting, making it difficult for the body to stop bleeding.

Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications should avoid consuming large amounts of perilla leaves.

Hormonal Imbalances

Perilla contains compounds known as phytoestrogens which can mimic the effect of estrogen in the body.

This may lead to hormonal imbalances particularly in individuals with pre-existing hormonal conditions just as breast cancer, uterine fibroids and endometriosis amongst others.

Toxicity Concerns

In Japan meat fed with Perilla coleosricha showed hepatotoxicity which made Japan ban its use resulting in its use declining significantly over time for medicinal purposes within Japan even though it is still quite popular outside Japan both as food and herb medicine.

Culinary Use Precautions

The seeds of perilla contain high levels of fats hence excessive consumption may lead to stomach upsets while consuming fresh leaves directly sometimes might lead to a mouth ulcer or sore throat hence processing is done by drying or boiling so as to prevent these raw leaf related health concerns.

In conclusion, while perilla leaf has several health benefits due to its nutritional value and medicinal properties, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects especially if taken in large quantities or when having certain medical conditions before incorporating it into your diet.

What is the perilla leaf controversy?

Perilla is a herb native to Asia that has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries.

However, in recent years, perilla has been a topic of controversy due to its potential health effects.

The safety of consuming perilla leaves

Some people have raised concerns about the potential dangers of consuming raw perilla leaves.

This is because perilla contains a compound called perilla ketone which can cause an allergic reaction in some people.1

In addition, consuming large amounts of perilla oil may increase the risk of bleeding disorders, particularly among individuals who are taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or warfarin.2

The benefits of consuming perilla leaves

Despite these concerns, many people still consume perilla leaves regularly for their health benefits.

Perilla is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat a range of conditions including asthma, allergies, and skin disorders.3

In addition, perilla has been found to exhibit anti-cancer properties due to its high antioxidant content.4

The controversy surrounding genetically modified perilla

Another controversy surrounding perilla relates to genetically modified (GM) crops.

In recent years, there have been reports of GM perilla being developed in China and South Korea for agricultural purposes.

Many people are concerned about the potential risks associated with GM crops and believe that they may be harmful to human health and the environment.

As a result, there have been calls for greater regulation and transparency around the development and use of GM crops including GM perilla.

Sources:

1https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29734828

2https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9158347

3https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3700084/

4https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24864129

5http://lpalibrary.org/ssg/docs/genetically-modified-plants-in-korea-english.pdf

Is Perilla Anti-Inflammatory?

Understanding the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Perilla

Perilla, also known as shiso, is a herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

One of the most notable benefits of perilla is its anti-inflammatory properties.

It contains several compounds that help to reduce inflammation in the body, including eugenol, luteolin, and rosmarinic acid.

The Mechanism Behind Perilla’s Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Perilla’s anti-inflammatory effects can largely be attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Cytokines are proteins produced by immune cells that play a vital role in regulating inflammation.

When these cytokines are overproduced, it can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to a range of health conditions including arthritis, heart disease and cancer.

The Health Benefits of Consuming Perilla Leaves

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, consuming perilla leaves has been associated with other health benefits such as reducing allergy symptoms, improving cardiovascular health and aiding digestion.

How Can You Incorporate Perilla into Your Diet?

The leaves of the perilla plant can be consumed raw or cooked.

They have a mild minty flavor and are often used in salads or as a garnish for dishes like sushi or sashimi.

In Korean cuisine, perilla leaves are often used to wrap meat or fish before grilling or frying.

If you’re interested in incorporating perilla into your diet for its anti-inflammatory benefits, try adding fresh perilla leaves to your salads or using them as a flavorful wrap for your next meal.

Overall, it’s safe to say that consuming perilla leaves can have several health benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

However, it’s important to note that more research is needed on its potential side effects and drug interactions.

What is perilla leaf controversy?

Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw

Perilla leaf, also known as shiso, is a plant commonly used in Asian cuisine.

However, in recent years, there has been some controversy surrounding the consumption of perilla leaves.

The source of controversy

The main source of controversy stems from the fact that perilla contains a chemical called perillaldehyde, which can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Additionally, some studies have linked perilla consumption to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

However, further research is needed to fully understand this potential risk.

Is perilla safe to eat?

Despite the controversy surrounding perilla, it is generally considered safe for most people to consume in moderate amounts.

As with any new food or ingredient, it’s always a good idea to start with small amounts and monitor your reaction before consuming larger quantities.

The benefits of consuming perilla

In addition to being delicious, perilla has been shown to have a number of health benefits.

It contains high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help protect against chronic disease.

Perilla has also been shown to promote healthy digestion and may even have anti-cancer properties.

However, more research is needed to fully understand these potential benefits.

If you are considering adding perilla to your diet or have concerns about its safety or potential health benefits, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietician for personalized advice.

What is the health benefit of perilla leaf?

Perilla leaves are used for culinary and medicinal purposes.

They are packed with several nutrients and health-promoting compounds such as antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils.

Here are some of the health benefits of perilla leaves:

Rich in Antioxidants

Perilla leaves contain powerful antioxidants that help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals.

These antioxidants also help reduce inflammation throughout the body and protect against chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Perilla leaves have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.

The essential oils found in perilla leaves contain compounds such as rosmarinic acid that have been shown to reduce inflammation in asthma, allergies, and inflammatory skin conditions.

Boosts Respiratory Health

Perilla leaves can help improve respiratory health by reducing inflammation in the airways.

The essential oils found in perilla leaves can help relieve symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.

Promotes Healthy Digestion

Perilla leaves have excellent digestive properties that can promote healthy digestion.

They contain fiber which helps regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.

They also have antibacterial properties that can kill harmful bacteria in the gut and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

In conclusion, perilla leaves offer several health benefits due to their rich nutrient profile and various bioactive compounds.

However, it is important to note that perilla may cause allergic reactions in some individuals; hence it is recommended to consume them under medical supervision.

Incorporating perilla into your diet may be a great way to improve overall health and well-being while enjoying its unique flavor.

What is the difference between shiso and perilla?

Perilla and shiso are two herbs that are often used in Asian cuisine.

Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are actually some differences between these two herbs.

Origin and Appearance

Shiso, also known as perilla frutescens var.

crispa, is native to China and Southeast Asia.

It has jagged-edged leaves that can vary in color from green to purple.

Shiso has a distinct aroma and taste that is often described as a combination of mint, basil, and anise.

Perilla, on the other hand, refers to two different species of plants: perilla frutescens var.

frutescens (also called Korean perilla or beefsteak plant) and perilla frutescens var.

acuta (also called Japanese shiso or Chinese basil).

Perilla leaves are usually larger than shiso leaves and have smooth edges.

They can be green or purple in color.

Usage in Cuisine

Both shiso and perilla leaves are often used in Asian cuisine for their unique flavor profiles.

Shiso is commonly used in Japanese cooking for its fragrance, while Korean cuisine favors the stronger, spicy flavor of Korean perilla.

In Korea, perilla leaves are used to wrap meat dishes such as bulgogi, while shiso is often used as a garnish for sashimi or sushi rolls.

Medicinal Benefits

Both shiso and perilla have been used for centuries in traditional medicine practices.

Perilla contains rosmarinic acid which has anti-inflammatory properties according to preliminary studies [1].

Shiso contains antioxidants like caffeic acid and rosmarinic acid which may help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals [2].

Conclusion

While both herbs have some similarities in their usage and medicinal benefits, they also have distinct differences in taste, appearance, origin and usage across cultures around the world.

Sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4555380/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27398018/

What are the health benefits of perilla leaves?

Rich in essential vitamins and minerals

Perilla leaves are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and K.

They also contain minerals like calcium, iron, and manganese which help maintain overall health.

Antioxidant properties

Perilla leaves contain flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds which have strong antioxidant properties.

These antioxidants help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals that contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Perilla leaves have potent anti-inflammatory properties which make them beneficial in treating inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

The high levels of rosmarinic acid found in perilla leaves are responsible for their anti-inflammatory effects.

Boost immune system

Perilla leaves have been found to stimulate the production of white blood cells which are responsible for fighting infections.

This action makes them helpful in boosting the immune system.

Promote cardiovascular health

The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids found in perilla leaves make them beneficial for heart health.

These fatty acids can reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots that can cause heart attacks or strokes.

Aid digestion

Perilla leaves have been traditionally used to improve digestion.

They contain compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria that aid digestion.

In conclusion, perilla leaves offer a wide range of health benefits including their rich nutrient content, antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, immune-boosting properties, cardiovascular benefits and digestive aid effect.

Including them in your diet is an excellent way to enhance your overall health and well-being.

Are perilla leaves good for weight loss?

Perilla leaves are commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in Korea and Japan.

These leaves come from the perilla plant, which is also known as shiso.

They are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and have several health benefits.

In this section, we will explore whether perilla leaves can aid in weight loss.

Low Calorie

Perilla leaves are incredibly low in calories, which makes them an excellent addition to a weight loss diet.

Studies have shown that consuming low-calorie foods can help people reduce their overall calorie intake and lose weight.

Fiber Content

Perilla leaves also contain a significant amount of dietary fiber.

Fiber is an essential nutrient that helps promote satiety and reduces hunger cravings.

Eating foods high in fiber can help you consume fewer calories throughout the day and contribute to weight loss over time.

Potassium Content

Another benefit of perilla leaves is their high potassium content.

Potassium plays a vital role in regulating your body’s water balance and electrolyte levels.

This mineral helps prevent water retention, which can lead to bloating and weight gain.

Vitamin B Complex

The vitamin B complex found in perilla leaves could also support weight loss efforts.

B vitamins are essential for proper metabolism of food, converting carbohydrates into glucose that the body can use for energy instead of storing as fat.

The Bottom Line

While perilla leaves alone won’t cause you to lose weight overnight, they can certainly be part of a healthy diet that supports a sustainable form of weight loss over time.

Incorporate them into your meals to enjoy their flavor while reaping their benefits on your journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Is Perilla Good for Weight Loss?

Perilla leaves have been gaining popularity in recent years, not just as a flavoring ingredient in Asian cuisine but also for their potential health benefits.

One of the touted benefits is weight loss.

This section explores whether perilla leaves can indeed help with weight loss.

What Makes Perilla Leaves Beneficial for Weight Loss?

Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw

Perilla leaves contain various compounds that are believed to aid in weight loss.

For instance:

  • Fiber: Perilla leaves are rich in insoluble fiber, which helps promote satiety and reduce appetite.
  • Rosmarinic Acid: This compound inhibits the activity of enzymes that break down starch into sugar.
  • By reducing the amount of sugar released into the bloodstream after a meal, it helps prevent spikes in insulin levels and reduces the likelihood of fat storage.
  • Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA): Perilla leaves contain a type of omega-3 fatty acid called ALA, which has been linked to weight loss and improved body composition.

Do Scientific Studies Back Up the Claims?

To date, only a few studies have investigated the effect of perilla leaves specifically on weight loss.

One animal study found that rats fed a high-fat diet along with perilla leaf extract gained less weight than those who didn’t receive the extract.

Another study on humans found that taking rosmarinic acid supplements resulted in a modest reduction in body fat compared to a placebo group.

While these results are promising, more research is needed to confirm whether perilla leaves can consistently lead to significant weight loss in humans.

How Can You Use Perilla Leaves for Weight Loss?

If you’re interested in incorporating perilla leaves into your diet to aid with weight loss, here are some ideas:

  • Add fresh perilla leaves to salads or smoothies for extra fiber and nutrients.
  • Brew perilla tea by steeping dried perilla leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
  • Incorporate perilla seed oil into your cooking as a healthy alternative to vegetable oil.

Conclusion

In summary, while there is some evidence to suggest that perilla leaves may be beneficial for weight loss due to their fiber content and various compounds like rosmarinic acid and ALA, more research is needed before concrete conclusions can be drawn.

Nonetheless, incorporating perilla leaves into your diet as part of an overall healthy eating plan may still offer other health benefits beyond just weight loss.

What is the medicinal use of perilla leaves?

Perilla leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a wide variety of ailments due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Here are some of the medicinal uses of perilla leaves:

Treatment for asthma

In Korean traditional medicine, perilla leaves have been used to alleviate asthma symptoms.

This is due to one of its active compounds, rosmarinic acid, which has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects on the airways.

Soothe digestive issues

Perilla leaves are known to have carminative properties that can help soothe stomach issues such as nausea, bloating and indigestion.

Alleviate allergy symptoms

Perilla has been traditionally used in Japan to alleviate allergy symptoms such as hay fever or allergic rhinitis due to its anti-inflammatory effect.

Lower cholesterol levels

Some studies suggest that consuming perilla leaves may help lower cholesterol levels in the body, possibly due to rosmarinic acid and other active compounds that inhibit the absorption of cholesterol.

Promote healthy skin

Perilla oil extracted from perilla seeds contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids that can promote healthy skin, reduce inflammation and protect against UV damage.

Overall, while more research needs to be conducted on the medicinal benefits of perilla leaves beyond anecdotal evidence, it’s clear that this herb is a powerhouse when it comes to promoting health and well-being.

As with any supplement or food product used for medicinal purposes, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider before adding it into your routine.

Can You Eat Perilla Leaves Raw

Marinated Perilla Leaves

Perilla leaves, also known as shiso leaves or Japanese basil, are commonly used in many cuisines for their herbaceous and slightly minty flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: Japanese, Korean
Keyword: Marinated Perilla Leaves
Calories: 91kcal

Ingredients

  • 20 perilla leaves

For the Marinade:

  • 3 tablespoons coarse ground gochugaru
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon anchovy stock dashi,
  • 1/2 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons finely minced garlic

Instructions

  • Leafy perilla is cleaned and dried. Mix all the ingredients for the marinade in a small basin, adding more liquid if necessary to achieve a smooth paste.
  • Lay a perilla leaf flat on the bottom of a lidded container. Add a small spoonful of the marinade, about 1/4 teaspoon, and spread it out evenly across the leaf. Repeat this process with additional perilla leaves until all of the marinade and leaves have been used.
  • Keep chilled for at least two hours and up to two weeks. yastmastmastmastmas, and.

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 91kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 790mg | Potassium: 505mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 7148IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 91mg | Iron: 4mg
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