For the treatment of anemia, arthritis, hypertension, cholesterol, anxiety, and for maintaining healthy bones and oral health
The sesame plant is a flowering plant belonging to the family Pedaliaceae. These seeds have the highest oil content of all seeds and a delicate nutty flavor that becomes more pronounced when toasted at low temperature for a few minutes.
Sesame seeds are oil-rich and commonly used in baking and other food industries. Their oil is used for cooking, but can also be used to make soaps and perfumes. Once the oil is extracted from the seeds, the remnants (called sesame flour) are often used as a protein-rich food for livestock.
In addition to being delicious, sesame seeds have been used in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine. Studies claim that adding sesame seeds to meals has many potential health benefits.
Are sesame seeds good for you?
Yes, absolutely — the benefits of sesame seeds are not only culinary, but this nutrient-rich condiment is also good for our body. Sesame seeds include a combination of vitamins and minerals and are one of the healthiest foods in the world.
These seeds can be consumed raw or dry, or even as roasted snacks. They are used as an ingredient in various cuisines.
Dry-roasted sesame seeds are ground with olive into a thin, light brown paste known as "Tahini," which is a popular Middle Eastern sauce. In Europe, they are commonly used in the production of margarine.
There are several varieties of sesame seeds depending on the cultivar type, such as white, black, and brown seeds:
White sesame seeds have a higher iron content than black ones and are used mainly as food ingredients or in the form of oil.
Black sesame seeds are more flavorful and have a stronger aroma than white or brown sesame seeds and are preferably used in medications. They contain 60% more calcium than white ones.
Brown sesame seeds have a balanced, slightly toasted flavor, intermediate between white and black, and are used both in food and in natural preparations. They provide a good amount of fiber, minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus, and healthy fats that contribute to digestive and cardiovascular well-being.
Health benefits of sesame seeds:
In addition to their culinary uses, these seeds possess nutritional, preventive, and curative properties that make them usable in traditional medicine. Sesame seed oil is a rich source of phytonutrients such as omega-6 fatty acids, phenolic flavonoid antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber. These seeds, therefore, offer a variety of benefits. The health benefits of sesame seeds include the following:
- Anticancer properties. Sesame seeds contain magnesium, which has anticancer properties. They also contain an anticancer compound called phytate. Sesame seeds have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of colorectal tumors, thus preventing colorectal cancer.
- Preventing diabetes. Sesame seeds contain magnesium and other nutrients that have been shown to combat diabetes. The use of sesame seed oil as the sole edible oil has been found to be effective in reducing blood pressure and plasma glucose in hypersensitive diabetics.
- Curing anemia. Sesame seeds, particularly black ones, are rich in iron. Therefore, they are highly recommended for those suffering from anemia and weakness.
- Cardiovascular health. Sesame seed oil prevents atherosclerotic lesions and is therefore beneficial for heart health. They contain an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamol, which also exhibits anti-atherogenic properties, thereby improving cardiovascular health. Sesame seeds are rich in monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, which helps reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the body. This prevents the risk of coronary heart disease and strokes.
- Digestive health. Sesame seeds support a healthy digestive system and colon, as they are rich in fiber. This high fiber content aids in proper bowel function, which facilitates the elimination of waste and relieves constipation.
- Relief from rheumatoid arthritis. Sesame seeds contain copper, a mineral that is vital for antioxidant enzyme systems, reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Additionally, this mineral provides strength to blood vessels, bones, and joints.
- Respiratory health. The magnesium contained in sesame seeds prevents asthma and other respiratory disorders by preventing airway spasms.
- Protection against radiation damage. Sesamol, found in sesame seeds and sesame oil, has been found to prevent DNA from being damaged by radiation. It also prevents damage to the intestines and spleen.
- Bone health. Sesame seeds contain zinc, which increases bone mineral density and bone health. A deficiency of this mineral can cause osteoporosis in the hip and spine area. Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium, a trace element that is vital for bone health.
- Oral health. Sesame seeds and sesame seed oil help improve oral health by removing dental plaque and whitening teeth. Oil pulling, i.e., the use of sesame seed oil in the mouth, can reduce the amount of streptococcus mutans in the teeth and saliva of the mouth and improve overall health.
- Neutralizing the effects of alcohol. Sesame seeds help the liver break down the harmful effects of alcohol, as well as other substances that generate poisoning in the body.
- Treatment of anxiety. Sesame seeds contain several nutrients that have stress-relieving properties. Minerals such as magnesium and calcium act as antispasmodics by regulating muscle function, i.e., contraction and relaxation. Thiamine (vitamin B1) has calming properties that help with proper nerve function. A deficiency of this vitamin can cause muscle spasms, mood swings, and depression. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that reduces pain and regulates sleep patterns and mood. Insufficient production and transmission of serotonin in the brain can lead to anxiety and depression.
- Lowering cholesterol. Black sesame seeds benefit by reducing cholesterol levels. They contain two substances called sesamin and sesamolin, which belong to a group of fibers called lignans. Lignans have a cholesterol-lowering effect, as they are rich in dietary fiber. Black sesame seeds also contain plant compounds called phytosterols that have a structure similar to cholesterol. Their consumption not only decreases blood cholesterol levels, but also reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer. Sesame seeds have the highest phytosterol content of all seeds and nuts.
- Eye health. According to traditional Chinese medicine, there is a strong relationship between internal organs and external parts, such as the eyes and the liver. The liver stores blood, and since a certain branch of the liver channel goes to the eyes, the liver can also send blood to the eyes to support their function. Black sesame seeds are beneficial for the liver as they increase liver blood, thereby nourishing the eyes. Their therapeutic effects help treat blurry vision and tired, dry eyes.
- Nourishing the organs. Black sesame seeds have been found to increase energy, nourish the brain, and slow aging. Regular consumption of black sesame seeds can help reduce symptoms of back pain, joint pain or stiffness, and joint weakness.
- Blood pressure reduction. Nowadays, hypertension is a common health problem among women and men of various age groups. Studies have indicated that the use of this oil can help reduce hypertension. The magnesium in this oil helps lower blood pressure.
- Anti-inflammatory effects. The wide range of minerals and vitamins in this oil helps boost immunity. The use of black sesame seed oil, either topically or through consumption, can help reduce ailments and conditions caused by inflammation. The high amount of copper in this oil helps users better cope with conditions caused by inflammation affecting the body's joints.
Skin benefits of sesame seeds
Healing properties
Sesame seed oil is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and has excellent healing properties. Its antibacterial properties help eliminate skin pathogens such as staphylococci and streptococci, as well as common skin fungi such as athlete's foot fungus. Sesame seed oil mixed with warm water can control vaginal yeast infections.
Sunburn treatment
When used after exposure to wind or sun, sesame seed oil can treat sunburn. It prevents harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun from damaging your skin, thus preventing the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation. Regular use of this oil significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and prevents the effects of chlorine in pool water.
Skin detoxifier
The antioxidants contained in sesame seed oil help detoxify the skin. When applied to the skin, the molecules of this oil attract oil-soluble toxins that can be washed away with hot water and soap.
Mix half a cup of sesame seed oil with half a cup of apple cider vinegar and a quarter cup of water. This should be applied every night after splashing the face with water. You should include sesame seed oil in your beauty regimen.
Suitable for babies
Baby skin, particularly the area covered by diapers, often presents rashes due to the acidity of body waste. Sesame seed oil protects their sensitive skin against these rashes. Applying it to the nose and ears provides protection against common skin pathogens. It also fights skin dryness.
Glowing skin
Sesame seed oil can provide you with radiant skin. It maintains skin flexibility by keeping it soft and supple, and heals areas of minor cuts, scratches, and abrasions. It helps tighten the skin on the face, particularly the area around the nose, and controls pore enlargement. It also controls breakouts and neutralizes poisons that develop on the surface and in the pores. You can also try a facial for radiant skin. Massage the face well with sesame seed oil and rub the face with rice or besan powder before washing with warm water. Afterwards, splash your face with cold water to close the pores.
Treatment of cracked heels
If you have cracked heels or foot pain, you can apply sesame seed oil every night before going to bed and cover your feet with cotton socks. This should be done for a couple of days to obtain soft, flexible feet.
Hair benefits of sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are full of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are vital for maintaining a healthy scalp and hair. Just like skin, sesame seed oil has beneficial effects on the scalp, thus combating various scalp problems. The benefits of sesame seeds for the scalp are as follows.
Promoting hair growth
Sesame seeds contain essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 that promote hair growth. Sesame seed oil stimulates hair growth by nourishing, conditioning, and promoting a healthy scalp. Regular massage with warm sesame oil penetrates the scalp, which increases blood circulation. It is comparable to a liquid vitamin that nourishes the roots and shafts of the hair.
Prevention of scalp problems
Sesame seeds are rich in replenishing vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are vital for a healthy scalp. Massaging the scalp with sesame seed oil combats dryness, flaking, and clogged pores that cause hair thinning and hair loss. Additionally, its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties help treat scalp infections and dandruff and soothe an irritated scalp.
Natural sunscreen
Sesame seed oil acts as a natural sunscreen for your hair by protecting it from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays and sun pollution.
Deep conditioning
Sesame seed oil acts as a deep conditioning treatment for dry and damaged hair, split ends, or chemically treated hair. It restores lost moisture and strengthens the hair shaft, allowing dull and brittle hair to regain its shine, bounce, elasticity, and softness.
Hair darkening qualities: Sesame seed oil is known for its hair darkening qualities, making it effective for people suffering from premature gray hair. It can be used with carrier oils such as olive or almond oil for maximum benefits.
Consume 2 ground tablespoons in daily meals very rich in calcium.
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