The sesame seed turns out to be the oldest seed oil source, first cultivated by man around 5000 years ago. It's called the queen of oil seeds. The seeds vary in colour from tan to black depending on their type and preparation, native to India and Africa. According to Ayurvedic medicine, sesame oil when applied in the nostrils relieve anxiety and insomnia & when massaged on the head can ease off headaches. The oil is also used as a topical treatment for skin problems, mouthwash, laxatives, aid lactation and to ease menstrual cramps.
Why are Sesame Seeds Good for Your Health?
One tablespoon of whole sesame seeds contains: 52 calories4 grams of fat1 gram of carbs2 grams of protein4 milligrams copper (18 per cent DV)2 milligrams manganese (11 per cent DV)87 milligrams calcium (9 per cent DV)31 milligrams magnesium (8 per cent DV)3 milligrams iron (7 per cent DV)57 milligrams phosphorus (6 per cent DV)7 milligrams zinc (5 per cent DV)1 milligram thiamine (5 per cent DV)
The seed has about 50% - 60% beneficial fatty oil of the lignan family (sesamin and sesamolin). The oil from sesame seed is rich in linoleic and oleic acids, the majority of which are gamma-tocopherol and other isomers of the vitamin. Sesame proteins (amino acids) include lysine, tryptophan and methionine.
Benefits of Sesame Seeds
Heart Healthy
Sesame Seeds Benefit the Heart & Lower Cholesterol -studies show that lignans in sesame oil help improve lipid profiles, normalize cholesterol and blood pressure. The Phytosterol beta-sitosterol in sesame improves the arterial function. Journal of Biological Medicine reveals that sesamin and sesamolin in sesame oil lower blood pressure, and prevent atherosclerosis.
Reduces Blood Pressure
According to some studies, the compounds, sesamin and sesamolin, in sesame oil lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on your cardiovascular system . Magnesium, a potent vasodilator lowers blood pressure, sesame seeds are filled up with this essential mineral & serves up to 25% of your daily requirement in one serving.
Manage Diabetes
A study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition revealed that combination therapy of sesame oil and anti-diabetic medications lowered blood sugar levels by a surprising 36%. Another key element in sesame seeds magnesium, helps to regulate blood sugar. Sesame oil are a healthy addition to your diabetic diet to keep blood sugar levels under control.
Anti-Cancer Properties
The powerful anti-carcinogenic effects of magnesium and phytate in sesame seeds have proven to be effective in preventing colorectal cancer. Sesame seeds have shown positive effects in reducing the risk of breast, lung, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.
Sesame Seeds (Til) For Skin And Health
Sesame seeds are a powerful antioxidant and possess antibacterial and antiviral properties. The antibacterial properties help to ward off skin pathogens like staphylococcus and streptococcus as well as common skin fungi such as athlete's foot. Sesame oil is an excellent suntan remover and prevents the harmful effect of chlorine water in swimming pool. It promotes skin flexibility by keeping the skin soft and supple and heals mild cuts and abrasions.
Healthy Skin
The goodness of zinc in sesame oil, the most potent mineral which enhances skin health and beauty. It greatly helps to improve skin elasticity, smoothness and prevent free radical damage of the cells thereby reducing age spot and slows down premature ageing of the skin.
Promotes Hair Growth
The essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 in sesame seeds promote hair growth. Sesame seed oil quickens hair growth by nourishing, conditioning, and promoting a healthy scalp.
Premature Greying
Sesame oil has been used extensively to improve the growth of the hair. The bioactive compounds in black sesame oil aids to retain the natural colour. Apply sesame oil regularly as the darkening properties will help to darken your hair and making the mane look healthy and lustrous.
Promotes Hair Growth
Regular use of sesame oil improves blood circulation in the scalp and promote hair growth. Sesame oil can diffuse easily which prevents hair damage and nourishes the hair shaft and follicles.
Guards From UV Rays
Sesame oil is a wonderful sun blocking agent. Applying sesame oil on the hair and scalp shields the hair from the harmful UV rays due to extended sun exposure and pollution.
Treats Dandruff
The potent antibacterial effect of sesame oil is very effective in battling against harmful pathogens that damage the hair scalp. Applying sesame oil into your scalp daily at night can help in comforting itchy scalp and prevent dandruff.
How to Use Sesame Oil for Skin?
Moisturizer
Cleanse your face well, smear a few drops of sesame oil on the skin and gently massage it in circular motions. Let it diffuse well overnight to lock hydration.
For intense body care, massage sesame oil immediately after a shower when the skin is wet.
Face Masks
Blend 1 tablespoon of sesame oil with 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of yogurt. Massage the mixture on your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. This face mask will moisturize and brighten your skin texture and tone.
Massage Oil
Warm a small amount of sesame oil and use it for a relaxing body massage. The oil's anti-inflammatory properties will help soothe sore muscles and joints.
How to Use Sesame Oil for Hair?
Hair Oil
Warm a little sesame oil and massage it into your scalp using your fingertips. Let it stay for at least an hour, or overnight for better results, and then rinse well with a mild shampoo.
Hair Masks
Mix 2 tablespoons of sesame oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel. Apply the mixture to your hair and scalp and leave it on for 30-45 minutes before rinsing off. This mask will deeply condition and nourish your hair.
Pre-Wash Treatment
Apply sesame oil to your hair and scalp before washing your hair. This pre-wash treatment will help protect your hair from the drying effects of shampoo.
Combat Dandruff
Mix sesame oil with a few drops of tea tree oil and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off. This treatment helps reduce dandruff and soothe the scalp.
(This article is reviewed by Preeti Sharma, Wellness Expert)
Author Profile
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363679680_Formulation_and_Evaluation_of_Herbal_Hair_Oil_Using_Sesame_Hair_Oil
