Sesame Seeds: 11 Reasons to Include in Your Diet

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L) belong to Pedaliaceae family, also known as benniseed, gingelly, simsim, ajonjoli, sesamo and til.

Oilseed culture in the ancient world is famous due to its ease of extraction, high strength, and protection from dry spells and climate change.

These are best source of nutrition and restorative qualities.

Numerous studies have shown that simsim seeds contain a number of nutrients.

It contains protein 19.8 g, fat 51.9% carbohydrates 18.4% fiber, 10.8 g, saturated fatty acids 6.7 g, unsaturated fatty acids 8.5 g , polyunsaturated fatty acid 21.8 g, linoleic acid 18.7 g, Sesamino l32 mg and linoleic acid670 mg.

This article most often focuses on the beneficial effect of the emerging medicinal plant (Sesamum indicum L. or sesame seeds) in controlling a number of disease states.

Health Benefits

Th plant-based natural products are very beneficial, these natural food products have no more or less side effects if consume properly.

In general, sesame seeds are a vital source of phytonutrients such as omega-6 fatty acids, flavonoid and phenolic antioxidants

Moreover, they also contain vitamins and dietary fiber with properties such as anti-cancer, as well as other various health-improving properties.

The oil extracted from sesame seeds, engaged in the food and pharmaceutical industry due to its high content of lipids and proteins and unique taste.

1. Anti Inflammatory & Anti bacterial Properties

It is a naturally effective antibacterial drug for skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, as well as for skin fungi such as athlete’s foot fungus.

If the mouth is rinsed with sesame oil, it causes an 85% reduction in the bacteria that causes gingivitis.

2. Antioxidant Properties

Generally, sesame seeds are roasted for intake during this phase, a compound present in the seed called sesamolin is converted to sesamol.

Furthermore, it has been found to have an antioxidant effect and stops growth when there is damage to the bones.

The phenolic groups of molecules present in sesame seeds are the reason for the antioxidant action.

Above all, derivatives such as benzodioxide are also present in the seeds and have been shown to possess anti-tumor, antioxidant and many other biological activities.

3. Anti-Bacterial Activity

About 85% reduction in microscopic organisms such as bacteria and viruses that cause gum disease was observed in the test, where patients rinsed their mouths with sesame oil.

Til oil was also useful in relieving long-term sinusitis. Sesame oil can expel streptococcus and other common cold germs from the throat through its use as a throat swab.

4. Anti-Diabetic Effect

Sesame oil in various studies has also been shown to improve the effectiveness of an oral anti-diabetic drug called glibenclamide in patients with type 2 diabetes.

5. Anti-Cancer Effect

Sesame oil has been found to prevent the growth of malignant melanoma and the proliferation of human colon cancer cells.

The anti-oxidative activity of sesame seed compounds has been shown to reduce the activity of cancer cells in the body.

Many studies have suggested that intake of these seeds helps reduce the activity of cells that cause cancer to break out in the body.

6. Oxidative Stress

Generally, osteoarthritis is a disease of musculoskeletal abnormality, particularly found in women

In this disorder, it causes a dynamic problem of the joint ligament, which causes a drop in the movement of the joint, agony and causes the inability of the joint.

The beneficial effect of sesame seeds is the improvement of lipid profile and oxidative stress.

7. Liver Disease

Sesame is one of the most important antioxidant substances of sesame, therefore, can help to reduce high blood pressure.

Generally, both compounds sesamin and sesamolin are enhancers because they increase liver mitochondria and per oxysomic fatty acid oxidation.

Sesame seeds can improve the action of enzymes present in the liver.

8. Relive Inflammation

Sesame seeds are rich in copper therefore, helps to fight a number of diseases with inflammatory symptoms, such as arthritis.

Moreover, the copper content in sesame seeds is also beneficial for the walls of blood vessels to gain strength and maintain healthy blood flow, as thin walls have a high probability of rupture. Moreover, It helps to provide strength to the bones and joints.

9. Helps in Hair and Skin Care

Significant amount of zinc is present in sesame seeds, having properties to reduce signs like skin burns.

It also helps skin look youthful and fresh, and prevents early signs of aging from the face.

10. Sesame in Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plague occurs in the arteries and causes blockage.

Previous studies shown that the compounds found in sesame seeds are working as an antioxidant effect.

Similarly, helps to reduce lipid peroxidation in the body along with decreases endothelial dysfunction caused by the production of reactive oxygen species.

11. Cholesterol Lowering Properties

Sesame seeds neutralize oxygen-free radicals found under the skin.

Its oil can quickly penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream through capillaries.

The molecules present in Til oil are excellent for maintaining good cholesterol and lowering bad cholesterol.

Conclusion

Sesame is a emerging medicinal plant in controlling a number of disease states.

It is a good source of minerals, vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, protein and various other compounds.

To optimized your daily intake, you can consume sesame seeds as soaked, sprouted or roasted.

Written by Sehrish Mumtaz (BS Hons) HND,  Institute of Food And Nutrition Sciences, PMAS-Arid agriculture university (Rawalpindi).

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