Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are extremely beneficial for health. Sesame seeds are derived from the plant Sesamum indicum belonging to the Sesamum genus. The seeds of this plant are considered to be the oldest cultivated oilseed crop in the world. The sesame plant is extremely resilient and grows in places where other plants fail to grow. It has a nutty flavour. The sesame seeds come in a variety of colours depending on the wide variety of the plant itself. The seeds contain many essential nutrients, natural oils and organic compounds. Some of the health benefits provided by the sesame seeds are listed below.

1. A source of Copper

Sesame seeds are an excellent source of copper. Copper is known for reducing pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis, as it is a trace mineral that is important in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzyme systems.

2. A source of Magnesium

Sesame seeds are also very good source of magnesium which is useful in preventing the airway spasm in asthma. It also lowers the high blood pressure which is a contributing factor in a heart attack. Magnesium prevents the contraction of the trigeminal blood vessel which triggers migraine attacks.

3. Source of calcium

Sesame seeds are a good source of calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, selenium and molybdenum. Calcium prevents colon cells from chemicals that can cause cancer. It also helps to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. Calcium is also beneficial in averting migraine headaches and reduces PMS symptoms during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Sesame seeds contain zinc that enhances the bone mineral density.

4. Boosting oral health

Sesame seed oil boosts oral health as it helps to remove the dental plaque and whitens the teeth.

5. Preventing damage to DNA

Sesamol, a substance found in the sesame seeds and oil, prevents the damage to DNA by radiations. It has also been found to prevent damage to the intestines and the spleen.

6. Fibre content

Sesame seeds are rich in fibres, which helps to have a healthy digestive system and relieves from constipation, as the high fibre content results in smooth functioning of the intestines.

7. Rich in iron

Black sesame seeds are rich in iron and are highly recommended to those suffering from weakness and anaemia.

8. Detoxifying agent

Sesame seeds help in detoxification from alcohol by helping the liver in decomposing the harmful substances that generate poison in the body.

9. Reduction in cholesterol

Black sesame seeds help in lowering the cholesterol level, due to the presence of substances called sesamolin and sesamin that belong to a group of fibres called lignans and have a cholesterol-lowering effect.

10. Slows down ageing

Black sesame seeds have also been found to slow down ageing, nourish the brain and increases energy. Their regular consumption can also reduce a backache, and stiffness and weakness in joints.

11. Prevention of diseases

Sesame is not only rich in antioxidants but also has antiviral and antibacterial properties. The sesame oil is rich in omega-6, vitamin B and vitamin E, among other nutrients like calcium, iron, which have been used for beautification and are beneficial for skin. Sesame seed oil provides you with glowing skin keeping it soft. It also easily heals mild cuts and bruises.

· Baby skin often gets rashes, especially the area covered with diapers. Sesame seed oil is suitable for babies to protect their skin from these rashes and also helps to prevent the dryness of the skin.

· Sesame oil contains nutrients and minerals that prove to be vital for healthy hair and scalp.