Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are derived from a plant of the Sesamum genus and bear the scientific name of Sesamum indicum. These seeds are considered the oldest oilseed crop in the world and have been cultivated for more than 3,500 years. Sesame seeds come from the sesame plant, which is native to Asia and East Africa, evidence of their native forms in Africa and India. The sesame plant is tremendously resilient and grows in places where many other crops fail, which is why it was so heavily relied on throughout the ages. The seeds themselves are very small, only 3-4 mm long and 2 mm wide, yet 3.85 million metric tons are produced every year. They come in a wide variety of colors, depending on the variety or strain of the sesame plant.

Health Benefits of Sesame Seeds

These seeds are widely spread around the globe due to their accessibility and pleasant flavor. The extensive variety of health benefits is explained in details below.

Reduce Hypertension: The natural oils of sesame seeds have been connected to a reduction in hypertension.

Skin & Hair Care: sesame seeds contain high levels of zinc, a vital component in the formation of collagen, which strengthens the muscle tissue, hair, and skin.

Boost Metabolic Function:  Sesame seeds contain a high amount of protein, which is broken down and reassembled from its component parts into usable proteins for the human body. This adds to overall strength, mobility, energy levels, and a boosted metabolic function.

Prevent Cancer: Sesame seeds have a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals in it, and have been linked to a reduction in the risk of cancer. The seeds of sesame also contain phytate, an uncommon cancer-preventing compound that functions as an antioxidant and reduces the effects of free radicals.

Boost Bone Health: The remarkable levels of essential minerals like zinc, calcium, and phosphorous found in sesame seeds can be a major boost for your bone health.

Protect Against Radiation: One of the organic compounds in sesame seeds is called sesamol, and it has been associated with protecting DNA from the harmful effects of radiation.

Manage Diabetes:  The components of sesame seeds, like magnesium, have been connected to reducing the chances of diabetes and managing the symptoms in patients having already developed the condition. Sesame seed oil can positively affect the impact of various medications like glibenclamide in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes.

Reduce Inflammation: The high content of copper in sesame seeds has a number of valuable functions, including the reduction of inflammation in joints, bones, and muscles, thereby reducing the associated pain of arthritis.