Healing sesame: useful properties of the plant and its use. Harm of sesame and contraindications for use

Sesame (from lat. Sesamum- oil plant) - an annual and perennial plant, in the pods of which sesame seeds ripen. There are several types of sesame seeds: white, yellow, brown and black. But most often there are two main types: white and black. White ones are used in cooking for dishes that undergo heat treatment, and black ones are the other way around. It is this species that is more fragrant.

Humanity has been using sesame seeds for a very long time. It was used for medicinal purposes in ancient Greece, Rome, Babylon and China. Mentions of sesame oil are reflected in the ancient cultural heritage of many countries, as well as in Holy Scripture. The first to describe the maximum number of useful properties of sesame and sesame oil was Avicenna, who created a huge work on healing in the 11th century.

Now sesame seeds for export are grown in the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Far East and India.

Selection and storage

When buying sesame seeds, you need to choose those that do not stick together and are as dry as possible.

The most useful are raw sesame seeds, because. during heat treatment, the bulk of the nutrients evaporate. However, raw seeds should not be stored for a long time. After 1-2 months, they begin to turn rancid. Cold-pressed sesame oil can be stored the longest. It retains its beneficial properties for 9 years without significant changes in the vitamin-mineral and chemical composition. The taste of the oil is similar to olive oil, but is more aromatic and without the bitterness inherent in olive oil. You can’t fry in sesame oil, because. it immediately begins to burn and at a high temperature carcinogens begin to form in it. It is used exclusively for dressing vegetable, meat and cheese salads. Sesame oil is also used for cosmetic purposes for massage, make-up removal and as a base for moisturizing creams.

Usage and application

Sesame seeds are used in cooking for cooking kazinaki, sweets, halva and other sweets, in bakery products and as a seasoning for meat.

Calorie content of sesame

Sesame has a high calorie content due to the high content of fats and proteins. In 100 g of sesame - 560 kcal. And in 100 g of sesame oil - 884 kcal. This product causes obesity, so overweight people, as well as those who follow their figure, it is important to use it with caution.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

Useful properties of sesame

Composition and presence of nutrients

Sesame seeds are classified as oilseed products. They contain almost 60% of the seed volume of vegetable fats, including linoleic, oleic, palmitic, myristic, arachidic, stearic and lignoceric acids. These substances are indispensable for the human body and take part in all vital processes. Sesame seeds also have a rich vitamin and mineral composition. It contains vitamins,, and group B; minerals - magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, iron, but most of all in calcium. For 100 g of sesame, it accounts for as much as 783 mg, which is the daily dose of an adult. In addition, organic acids are present in the seeds: beta-sitosterol, phytin and lecithin.

Useful and medicinal properties

Sesame oil should not be consumed with aspirin and oxalic acid, since, by combining with them, calcium forms deposits in the kidneys.

Cases of individual intolerance to sesame are known.

Sesame is one of the oldest oilseed crops, also known as simsim and sesame. Sesame is widely used to this day, since the inhabitants are well acquainted with such a question as sesame seed: benefits and harms.

Although sesame has a lot of useful properties, it is grown mainly for the manufacture of oil, used both in cooking and for medical and cosmetic purposes.

South Africa is considered the birthplace of sesame, but it is also grown in the countries of the Far East, Central Asia and India.

It is worth noting that sesame seed is used more widely abroad, while our compatriots use it mainly for gastronomic purposes, for example, for making desserts such as halva. Sesame is also used as a topping for various bakery products. But you should better familiarize yourself with the issue of sesame seeds: benefits and harms, because it is not entirely reasonable to use such a useful tool exclusively for culinary delights.

Composition and calories

The percentage of oils in sesame seeds is approximately 45-55%.

Sesame also contains a powerful antioxidant sesamin, which is widely used to prevent many diseases, including cancer, as well as to reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood. The ability to lower cholesterol levels is also due to the presence of beta-sitosterol in sesame seeds. It is thanks to these substances that sesame and sesame oil have a very long shelf life.

Also, sesame seed contains many proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins A, B, C, E, it is rich in potassium, magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus and other useful mineral compounds, dietary fiber and lecithin.

The composition of sesame includes phytin - a substance that helps to restore and normalize the mineral balance in the body. Phytosterol helps to strengthen the immune system, increase the body's resistance to various infections and reduce the risk of getting the flu. The same element reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and fights the problem of obesity.

Thiamine is responsible for normalizing the metabolism in the body, as well as improving the functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin PP is extremely useful for the full functioning of the digestive system.

The energy value of sesame seeds is approximately 560-580 kcal.

Beneficial features

Sesame seeds, the benefits and harms of which are due to the chemical composition, have a delicate pleasant taste.

To get the most out of sesame, it is best to consume it soaked or slightly warmed. Roasted seeds added to any dish are just a fragrant condiment that is devoid of most of the useful properties.

The benefits of sesame seeds are that they improve the condition of hair and nails, have a positive effect on the composition of the blood, and stimulate the growth of the body due to the content of riboflavin.

Since sesame seeds contain large amounts of calcium, it is simply indispensable for joints and bones, it is used to prevent osteoporosis. This spice also contributes to the active build-up of muscle mass.

Ancient healers used sesame seeds, the benefits and harms of which were known many centuries ago, to treat colds. The benefit of this spice also lies in the fact that it helps to make breathing easier for people with asthma and lung diseases.

Healers were sure that sesame helps to keep the female reproductive system in good condition. Therefore, even in ancient times, they recommended that women daily chew one spoonful of these seeds. Sesame is also recommended for nursing mothers, because it reduces the risk of mastopathy. These seeds are especially useful for women over the age of 45, as they contain phytoestrogen, a substitute for female sex hormones.

It is noticed that in combination with poppy and flax seeds, sesame becomes a strong aphrodisiac, which makes it useful for both women and men.

Benefits and uses of sesame oil

Oil made from sesame is very actively used in medicine for the production of various ointments, emulsions and patches, since this product is known to improve blood clotting.

Sesame oil also has a laxative effect.

Sesame oil is also used in cosmetology, as it has moisturizing and softening properties. It is able to relieve irritation, normalize the protective properties of the skin, stimulate its regeneration and smooth out wrinkles. It is known to block ultraviolet rays. Also, sesame seed oil is used for massage and as a make-up remover.

Harm of sesame and contraindications for use

Sesame seed, the benefits and harms of which can border on each other, also has some contraindications.

Since this product improves blood clotting, it should be used with caution in people with increased clotting and thrombosis. It is also contraindicated in urolithiasis.

Since the gastric mucosa is very sensitive to sesame seeds, it will bring great benefits to the body if consumed in moderation. For a healthy adult, the rate of sesame consumption is 2-3 teaspoons per day. And the harm of sesame will especially affect if you eat it on an empty stomach - this will inevitably cause a feeling of thirst and nausea.

Selection and storage of sesame seeds

When choosing sesame, you need to make sure that the seeds are dry and crumbly. Therefore, it is best to buy sesame seeds in transparent bags or by weight. Seeds should not have a bitter taste.

Unpeeled sesame seeds have much higher health benefits as well as a longer shelf life. Unpeeled sesame seeds can be stored in an airtight container in a dry, dark and cool place. Under such conditions, sesame seeds are stored for about three months.

The shelf life of peeled seeds is drastically reduced and they go rancid very quickly. To prevent rancidity, it is best to store peeled sesame seeds in the refrigerator or freezer. In a refrigerated place, the seeds have a shelf life of about six months, and in the freezer, they retain their beneficial properties for about a year.

It is worth noting that all this does not apply to sesame seed oil. This product can be stored for years with absolutely no deterioration even when stored in a high temperature place. Sesame oil can retain its beneficial properties for about ten years.

The benefits of sesame seed oil did not become known immediately. Initially, this product was used as a fuel and lubricant. People realized that sesame oil is wonderful for culinary purposes, only in the VI century BC.

On the famous Big Mac, the number of sesame seeds is almost always 178.

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Sesame seeds are a delicacy familiar to everyone since childhood. They are known as a delicious culinary spice, added exclusively to sweet dishes in European cuisine. In fact, sesame has a lot of useful properties and is often used in alternative oriental medicine. Now it is fashionable to seek help from folk recipes for healing, maybe sesame should be added to your first aid kit?

What is a sesame plant?

Sesame or sesame is a genus of annual herbaceous plants common in many African countries. It includes 26 types. Indian sesame is most often used for food. This species grows not only in India, which is clear from the name, but also in other eastern countries. In total, there are 15 states in the world that export sesame to all corners of the planet.

In order to give the seeds a sweeter taste and remove astringency, sesame seeds are not only grown, but also treated in a special solution and peeled before being sent to importers. Thus, the seeds acquire new taste qualities, but lose a number of useful properties. The fact is that many vitamins and minerals are contained in the shell. However, unhulled sesame seeds are very difficult to find in the European part of the mainland, as they are not popular with consumers.

How sesame is used in different countries

Sesame is used not only in food and medicine, but also in cosmetology. It is more often eaten in the countries of the East, where it grows. The main value of sesame is that it is very unpretentious to weather conditions. The roots of the plant go far deep into the earth, therefore high temperature and drought do not prevent it from growing. This is especially important in areas where it rarely rains.

Sesame oil is produced from sesame oil, in some countries it is more common than sunflower, olive or corn oil. It is used in the same way as any other vegetable oil. It is customary to sprinkle sesame seeds on buns and puffs, add to the dough when baking sweets.

In the East, halva and gozinaki are prepared from roasted sesame seeds. This is their main difference from local sesame sweets. Domestic gozinaki almost always tastes like raw sesame due to improper processing. On the shelves of local shops you can find sweets and chocolates containing sesame seeds. For example, milk chocolate with a lot of sesame is produced by Roshen.

Sesame can be used for more than just dessert. In Arab countries, tahini is made from it - a paste that is used as a sauce for many national dishes, and also added to pies. In China, the seeds are used to make a favorite national delicacy - sesame balls. The Japanese make gomashio, a salty spice, from sesame, which they add to most of their classic dishes. Interestingly, Japan does not grow sesame, but this country is the largest importer of sesame in the world.

Sesame oil, in addition to cooking, is often used in cosmetology. Especially in those countries where similar vegetable oils from other crops are much more expensive.

Nutritional value of sesame

Sesame contains a large amount of vitamins. Group B in those seeds that are sold with us is almost not contained, it is lost during the purification of sesame. But in the seeds there is a large amount of natural antioxidants - ascorbic acid and tocopherol. Moreover, due to the high content of oils in the seeds, fat-soluble tocopherol is absorbed almost completely. In addition to vitamins, sesame is rich in essential amino acids. Of the amino acids, it contains lysine, methionine and tryptophan.

Many in these seeds and trace elements. Sesame contains on average about 10% of the daily dose of such substances as: manganese, magnesium and calcium and 20% of the daily requirement of copper. However, it should be borne in mind that calcium from sesame is almost not absorbed, because it is contained there in the form of salts. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats are contained in sesame in a ratio of 1:2:4, which is not very beneficial for the body. The energy value of this product in its pure form is 580 kcal per 100g.

The greatest benefit among all the substances contained in sesame seeds is sesamin. This is a ligand that is not found anywhere except sesame and flax. It helps to speed up metabolism through already deciphered biochemical reactions. In addition, sesamin reduces the metabolism of vitamin E, increasing its concentration in the body. This ligand also has anti-inflammatory properties. Sesamin is so useful that it is sold as a dietary supplement.

Thanks to the substances contained in the seeds, sesame has the following beneficial properties:

1. Fat burning. Thanks to sesamin, the chain of transformation of fatty acids into fats is blocked and the breakdown of fatty acids is accelerated. Because this substance is included in dietary supplements for weight loss.
2. Saturation. Another useful property for losing weight. Sesame seeds are very satisfying, a small amount of them allows you not to feel hungry for a long time, giving up harmful snacks on the go.
3. Protection against atherosclerosis. Sesame contains an analogue of cholesterol - phytosterol. It replaces a compound harmful to the body, preventing it from entering the body. Unlike cholesterol itself, phytosterol is not deposited on the walls of blood vessels in the form of atherosclerotic plaques.
4. Prevention of malignant neoplasms. One of the possible causes of tumor formation is lipid peroxidation. This is what antioxidants prevent. That is why vitamins E and C contained in sesame seeds are so important.
5. Acceleration of gastrointestinal motility. Sesame oil has this property. It enhances the movement of chyme through the digestive tract and is used to treat constipation.
6. Hemostatic property. Sesame increases the number of platelets, which helps stop bleeding.
7. Normalization of hormonal background. Thanks to the lipids contained in the seeds, the daily use of sesame by women after 50 can even out the hormonal background in their body and reduce the manifestations of menopause.

In addition, sesame oil is used for colds, rubbing the skin with it in the projection of the lungs. Also, sesame oil is used for massage, for this it is applied to the body before the procedure.

Harm of sesame

The main rule of healthy sesame is its quality. Overcooked, rotten or overdried sesame does not have any useful substances, on the contrary, it can harm the body. The seeds of this plant should not be consumed by people with a tendency to increased blood clotting. It is dangerous with thrombosis and embolism.

In addition, a contraindication to the use of this product is urolithiasis, calculous cholecystitis and diarrhea. It is worth knowing that sesame is one of the strongest plant allergens. In terms of the number of food allergic reactions caused, it is perhaps second only to peanuts. Therefore, sesame should be used with caution by people prone to allergies.

The optimal daily dose of sesame seeds is 10-15g. At the same time, it can be eaten both independently and as an additive or seasoning to main dishes. It is worth taking into account all the sesame seeds eaten.

Thus, we can conclude that sesame is a tasty and healthy oriental plant. It has irreplaceable substances that have a positive effect on the functioning of the body. However, it is important to observe the measure when using the seeds of this plant.

Video: the healing properties of sesame

The beneficial properties of sesame seeds are contained in a complex rich in nutrients, indispensable for our body. It is a combination of vitamins and minerals that makes it one of the healthiest foods in the world. Sesame adds a special crunch to many Asian and Middle Eastern dishes – both races are known for their longevity.

Health benefits of sesame seeds

Sesame is an African plant well known for its oil-rich seeds, which were of great importance to ancient civilizations. Sesame oil has a significant content of omega 6 fats, as well as sesamin and sesamolin lignans, which have various biologically active and health promoting effects. In addition, sesame oil has anti-inflammatory activity and a healing effect on cancer cells.

The most striking health benefits:

1. Vegetarian diet high in protein. High quality amino acids make up 20% of the seeds and are ideal for a high protein vegetarian diet. Just sprinkle them on salads, your favorite vegetables or pasta.
2. Sesame seed oil contains an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamolin, which improves the cardiovascular system.
3. Grains support the health of the digestive system and colon, as they are rich in fiber. Healthy fibers help in good bowel function.
4. Oral hygiene due to the antibacterial effect and the elimination of streptococcus from teeth, tongue, gums.
5. Elimination of post-alcohol syndrome by stimulating the liver.
6. Elimination of anxiety due to trace elements in the composition with stress-resistant properties (magnesium, calcium, thiamine, tryptophan).
7. Benefits for skin and hair due to the content of zinc, which is involved in the production of collagen, which is necessary for elastic beautiful skin, healthy hair and strong nails.
8. Prolongation of youth and improvement of immunity due to antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral activity.
9. The antibacterial properties also help to get rid of skin pathogens such as staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus, as well as various skin fungi such as athlete's foot fungus. Sesame oil mixed with warm water can control vaginal yeast infections.
10. Sunburn treatment. If the oil is used after exposure to wind or sun, it can prevent damage from harmful UV rays, resulting in wrinkles and pigmentation. Regular use of this oil significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and prevents skin from being exposed to chlorine from the water.
11. Sesame nourishes, conditions and promotes healthy scalp. It fights dryness, flaking and clogged scalp pores. In addition, it has antifungal and antibacterial activity and helps in the treatment of scalp infections, dandruff and soothes irritated skin.
12. Sesame seed oil acts as a deep conditioner for dry, damaged, chemically treated hair. It restores lost moisture and strengthens the structure, enhances shine, elasticity and softness.
13. Sesame seed oil is known for its hair darkening properties, which make it effective for people suffering from premature graying. It can be used with carrier oils such as olive or almond oil for maximum benefits.

Sesame, or it is also called "Sesame", has been known to us since time immemorial. It was actively used in Ancient Greece, Rome, China, India. Then this seed was used for culinary and medicinal purposes, however, as it is now. Sesame seed contains a lot of useful properties. That is why it is so valued all over the world. From sesame oil is obtained, which treats many diseases, saturates the human body with essential minerals and fatty acids.

Sesame has a unique composition:

• saturated and unsaturated fatty acids: linoleic (from the Omega-6 class), linolenic (Omega-3), oleic (Omega-9), palmitic, stearic;
• proteins and carbohydrates;
• amino acids: histidine, tryptophan;
• macro- and microelements: phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper;
• vitamins: C, E, PP, and group B;
• phytosterol;
• phytoestrogen (sesamin);
• cellulose.

Useful properties of sesame

To get the maximum benefit from sesame for the body, it must be consumed soaked or heated. Sesame seeds need to be chewed thoroughly so that they are better absorbed.

Important! If sesame is subjected to heat treatment, for example, fried, then it will lose most of its nutrients.

Sesame seeds are very high in calories (573 kcal), but at the same time they have amazing properties.

So, how is sesame useful for the human body:

1. Sesame is the champion in calcium content. It strengthens bones, nails, teeth, has a positive effect on blood composition, prevents the development of osteoporosis, and is involved in the regulation of hormone secretion.
2. Reduces the level of bad cholesterol, preventing it from being absorbed into the blood. Consequently, the risk of developing atherosclerosis decreases, the activity of the cardiovascular system improves.
3. Normalizes metabolism and removes harmful substances from the body.
4. Increases the level of hemoglobin in the blood, strengthens the immune system, resists cancer.
5. Helps fight diseases such as hypertension, pneumonia, diseases of the joints, liver, thyroid and pancreas.
6. Improves the color and structure of the skin, rejuvenates the body, smoothes wrinkles.
7. Has a positive effect on the digestive system.
8. Helps to lose weight.
9. Destroys the negative effects of nicotine, reduces craving for alcohol.

Sesame oil is very popular in medicine. Plasters, ointments, emulsions are made from it, as it improves blood clotting. The oil has softening, moisturizing and regenerating properties, which is why it is highly valued in cosmetology.

Interesting! Daily use of a handful of sesame seeds can significantly improve the functioning of the reproductive system. Therefore, this product is especially useful for both women and men. The seeds of the plant promote blood flow to the pelvis. If sesame seeds are combined with poppy and flax seeds, then you can get a powerful aphrodisiac (increases sexual desire).

For women during menopause, sesame is also useful. It contains phytoestrogen, which is considered a natural plant-based substitute for female hormones. Sesame protects the female body from cancer, is responsible for youth and attractiveness.

Which sesame is healthier?

Sesame seeds have a variety of colors: from burning black to white. There are also brown and yellow shades of seeds. The seeds have a delicate and slightly spicy taste.

Black sesame is considered the most useful. It contains more minerals than other varieties. Research by scientists confirms that black sesame seeds also contain the highest amount of antioxidants.

Traditional medicine recipes

Sesame seeds help to cope with diarrhea. Boil the grains and mix them with flower honey. However, it is necessary to use this decoction with caution, as there is a risk of constipation.

The antioxidant properties of sesame help relieve cough for colds, flu, asthma. In a water bath, heat the sesame oil to 38 degrees, and then rub it on the skin of the chest and neck. Cover the oiled place with polyethylene, woolen cloth or a scarf.

Help cleanse and restore the body of toxins sesame kefir. Soak 200g sesame seeds in water (400g) for 12 hours. Then beat the grains with a blender until smooth, put the resulting mixture in a warm place. After 12 hours, your kefir will be ready. It is necessary to take half a cup a day for one month.

Is it possible to eat sesame seeds during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Important! Do not abuse sesame seeds during pregnancy. 1 tsp will be quite enough. in a day.

When breastfeeding, moderate consumption of sesame seeds helps reduce the risk of mastopathy, mastitis and other inflammations of the mammary glands.

Interesting! If mastitis occurs during lactation, gauze soaked in sesame oil should be applied to the seals. You can grind the seeds in a coffee grinder, mix them with vegetable oil and make a compress on the inflamed chest area.

Can children eat sesame seeds?

There are no strict age restrictions, however up to a year Do not include sesame seeds in your baby's diet. Although it does not cause allergies, but excessive consumption of sesame seeds can harm a small organism.

It is advisable for children to give sesame oil, because. the content of useful properties in it is higher than in raw sesame seeds. If for an adult the daily norm of oil is 1 tablespoon, then for a child's body the norm should be reduced to 1 tsp.

Massage with sesame oil contributes to a sound and healthy sleep of the child. A decoction of seeds is considered a good expectorant.

Contraindications and harm

Sesame has a lot of useful properties. However, it also has contraindications:

• sesame improves blood clotting, therefore it is contraindicated for those people who suffer from varicose veins and thrombophlebitis;
• excessive consumption of sesame seeds contributes to the formation of sand or kidney stones;
• during pregnancy, the use of sesame seeds in excess of the norm can provoke miscarriages or cause the development of hypercalcemia in the unborn child;
• sesame seeds should not be consumed on an empty stomach, otherwise you will not avoid nausea or thirst;
• sesame seed irritates the internal mucous membrane of the stomach, which is very undesirable for those who suffer from diseases of the digestive tract.

Also, one should not forget about the likelihood of individual intolerance to the product: in some cases, an allergic reaction to the plant is still possible.

Interesting! Sesame seeds are stored in an airtight container for three months. Frozen, they can retain all their beneficial properties throughout the year. But sesame oil is truly universal. It can be stored for several years, even in a very hot room.

Sesame is a unique product with an extraordinary taste and a lot of nutrients. The seeds of the plant can be consumed by almost everyone, regardless of age, but in a reasonable amount. After all, the abundance of seeds can cause irreparable harm to the body. Therefore, do not neglect this information and be healthy.