Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) come from the sesame plant and are one of the most ancient foods. They are tiny seeds only 3 mm long and come in a variety of colors depending on the type of sesame plant.1 Sesame seeds have been used traditionally in Indian, Mediterranean and African cultures for many reasons including for enhancing flavors and skin health. Sesame seeds are commonly known to be an ingredient added to Asian cuisine to give it a nutty flavor.2
Sesame seeds health benefits come from their nutritional content. Sesame seeds are a source of fiber, copper, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc and vitamin B1 among other nutrients.3 Sesame seeds also contain unique lignan fiber substances called sesamin and sesamolin, which offer unique health benefits.3 Some of the important sesame seed health benefits include:2 3
Sesame seed uses include being natural treatments for the following conditions:
Sesame seed side effects can be harmful to people with nut allergies as sesame seeds have a nutty taste. Some people also experience sesame seed side effects with difficulty digesting them. Additionally, because of the high copper content in sesame seeds anyone with Wilson’s disease should avoid eating them. This is a condition that causes an accumulation of copper in the liver.2