Sesame (Sesamum indicum)
Synopsis of sesame
Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is one of the oldest oilseed crops known to humanity, cultivated primarily for its small, nutrient-rich seeds. These seeds are packed with essential fatty acids, amino acids, fiber, vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and key antioxidants like sesamin, sesamol, and sesamolin. Sesame is consumed in whole seed form, as tahini (a paste), or as sesame oil—each offering distinct nutritional and medicinal benefits.
Medicinally, sesame seeds and oil are used for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, and lipid-lowering properties. Sesamin, one of its main lignans, has been studied for its ability to regulate cholesterol, protect the liver, support hormonal balance, and offer neuroprotective effects. The high content of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats makes sesame oil heart-healthy, and its natural antioxidants help preserve the oil and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
In modern herbal and integrative medicine, sesame oil is used for internal health and external applications. It is a staple in oil pulling practices (swishing oil in the mouth for oral detox), Ayurvedic massage, wound healing, and as a mild laxative. Internally, it supports digestion, nourishes the skin and hair, and may help with inflammation-related conditions such as arthritis or eczema when included as part of the diet.
Historical Use:
Sesame’s use dates back over 4,000 years to ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia, India, and Egypt. It is believed to be one of the first plants cultivated for edible oil. In Assyrian mythology, the gods drank sesame wine the night before creating the earth, underscoring its cultural and spiritual significance. Egyptian records show sesame oil was used for food, medicine, and cosmetics.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), black sesame seeds (hei zhi ma) are valued for their ability to tonify the liver and kidneys, nourish the blood, and strengthen hair, skin, and bones. They were often prescribed to those with premature graying of hair, dizziness, or dry stools, reflecting their reputation as a longevity food.
In Ayurveda, sesame (called til) is revered as a warming and grounding seed, used to balance vata dosha. Sesame oil is central to abhyanga (self-massage), nasya (nasal oil therapy), and basti (oil enemas), believed to lubricate tissues, improve circulation, and remove toxins. It is also used in ritual and religious practices as a symbol of immortality and spiritual purity.
Throughout the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Asia, sesame has held a sacred and nourishing place in both medicine and cuisine. From ancient Babylonian sweet cakes to Indian til laddus, and from traditional Chinese tonic formulas to modern cold-pressed oil supplements, sesame remains one of the most versatile and healthful botanicals still in use today.
Sesame is used for these health conditions
Anemia (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Traditional)
Skin Care (general) (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
sesame is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Prostate (Traditional)
Skeletal System (Bones) (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
