Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds, also known as “til,” have been used in Indian and Chinese kitchens for generations and are highly valued in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda. They are considered a powerhouse of minerals and offer numerous health benefits. 

Here are 20 health benefits of sesame seeds:

1. Full of high-quality protein: Sesame seeds are rich in protein, with 4.7 grams of protein per ounce.
2. Helps prevent diabetes: Sesame seeds contain magnesium and other nutrients that can help prevent diabetes and improve plasma glucose levels in hypersensitive diabetics.
3. Reduces blood pressure: The magnesium content in sesame seeds is known to help lower blood pressure, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
4. Lowers cholesterol: Sesame seeds contain phytosterols, which can help block cholesterol production and lower cholesterol levels.
5. Good for digestion: The high fiber content of sesame seeds supports healthy digestion and aids in regular elimination.
6. Promotes healthy skin: Sesame seeds are rich in zinc, which plays a role in collagen production and helps maintain skin elasticity. Regular use of sesame oil can also reduce the risk of skin cancer.
7. Boosts heart health: Sesame seed oil, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamol, can help prevent atherosclerotic lesions and promote heart health.
8. Prevents cancer: Sesame seeds contain anti-cancer compounds, including phytic acid, magnesium, and phytosterols, making them beneficial for cancer prevention.
9. Helps alleviate anxiety: Sesame seeds contain minerals like magnesium and calcium, as well as vitamins like thiamin and tryptophan, which have calming effects and can help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.
10. Alleviates anemia: Black sesame seeds, in particular, are rich in iron and are recommended for individuals with anemia and weakness.
11. Protects from radiation damage to DNA: Sesamol, found in sesame seeds and sesame oil, has been shown to protect against DNA damage caused by radiation.
12. Relieves arthritis: The high copper content in sesame seeds helps prevent and relieve arthritis symptoms, while also strengthening bones, joints, and blood vessels.
13. Protects the liver from alcohol: Sesame seeds can help protect the liver from the damaging effects of alcohol, promoting healthy liver function.
14. Prevents wrinkles: Sesame seed oil acts as a natural sunscreen, protecting the skin from harmful UV rays and preventing the formation of wrinkles and pigmentation.
15. Encourages bone health and prevents osteoporosis: Sesame seeds are a rich source of calcium, and the zinc content helps boost bone mineral density, supporting bone health.
16. Benefits baby’s health: Sesame oil massage can improve growth and sleep in babies, while also helping to alleviate rashes and dry skin.
17. Good for eye health: Black sesame seeds are particularly beneficial for eye health, as they support liver function, which plays a role in maintaining healthy eyes.
18. Good for oral health: Oil pulling with sesame seed oil can help reduce dental plaque, whiten teeth, and promote overall oral health.
19. Good for respiratory health: The magnesium content in sesame seeds helps prevent respiratory disorders, such as airway spasms and asthma.
20. Benefits hair health: Sesame seed oil contains nutrients that nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

Incorporating sesame seeds into your diet, whether in their natural form or as sesame oil, can provide you with these remarkable health benefits.