Sesame oil is an ancient ingredient, commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to improve physical and mental health.
Made from sesame seeds, sesame oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making it especially beneficial for overall health. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways sesame oil can protect your health.
1. Sesame Oil Is Good for Heart Health
The American Heart Association recommends using vegetable oils low in saturated and trans fats as a way to improve heart health. Sesame oil is a great choice because it’s low in saturated fats and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
These healthy fats can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
In addition, sesame oil contains sesamin and sesamolin, two antioxidants that help prevent plaque buildup in the arteries. Plaque buildup is a major risk factor for heart disease, so consuming sesame oil can improve your cardiovascular health.
2. Sesame Oil Helps Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a common health problem that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Studies have shown that sesame oil can help lower blood pressure levels.
The antioxidant sesamin found in sesame oil helps relax the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. This can improve circulation and lower blood pressure levels.
Additionally, sesame oil is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessels and regulate blood pressure.
3. Sesame Oil Boosts Immune System
Sesame oil contains compounds such as sesamol, sesaminol, and sesamin that have immune-boosting properties. These compounds help stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections and diseases.
Sesame oil also contains zinc, a mineral that’s important for immunity. Zinc deficiency can weaken the immune system and make you susceptible to infections.
Consuming sesame oil can help provide your body with the necessary amount of zinc to maintain a healthy immune system.
4. Sesame Oil Promotes Healthy Skin
The antioxidants and healthy fats in sesame oil make it an excellent ingredient for maintaining healthy skin. Sesame oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and reduce skin irritations.
It can also help hydrate the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
In addition, sesame oil contains vitamin E, an essential nutrient for skin health. Vitamin E helps protect the skin against damage from free radicals and UV rays, preventing premature aging.
5. Sesame Oil Reduces Inflammation
Long-term inflammation in the body is associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Sesame oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
The lignans found in sesame oil have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation in the body.
Additionally, the healthy fats in sesame oil can help reduce inflammation by providing the body with healthy nutrients that promote overall health.
6. Sesame Oil Improves Oral Health
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice where you swish oil in your mouth for several minutes to improve oral health. Sesame oil is a popular oil for oil pulling because of its many health benefits.
Sesame oil has antibacterial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth, preventing cavities and gum disease. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gums.
7. Sesame Oil Regulates Hormones
Sesame oil contains lignans, plant compounds that have a structure similar to the hormone estrogen. Lignans can bind to estrogen receptors in the body and help regulate hormonal balance.
Additionally, sesame oil is a good source of polyunsaturated fats, which are necessary for hormone production. Consuming sesame oil can help regulate hormones and promote overall hormonal health.
8. Sesame Oil Provides Nutritional Value
Sesame oil is a great source of several essential nutrients that are important for overall health. One tablespoon of sesame oil contains:.
- 120 calories
- 14 grams of fat
- 0 grams of cholesterol
- 0 grams of sugar
- 0 grams of protein
- 0 grams of carbohydrates
- 8% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin E
- 2% of the RDI of vitamin K
- 1% of the RDI of thiamin
- 1% of the RDI of riboflavin
- 1% of the RDI of niacin
- 1% of the RDI of iron
Consuming sesame oil as part of a balanced diet can help provide your body with these essential nutrients, promoting overall health and wellbeing.
9. Sesame Oil Can Reduce Anxiety and Depression
Sesame oil has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for its calming properties. The natural compounds found in sesame oil can help reduce anxiety and depression, promoting overall mental health and wellbeing.
The polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats in sesame oil can help improve brain function and mood. Additionally, the antioxidants in sesame oil can help reduce oxidative stress in the brain, preventing damage and promoting healthy brain function.
10. Sesame Oil Is Versatile and Easy to Use
Sesame oil is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways in cooking and for health purposes. You can use sesame oil as a cooking oil, a salad dressing, or a dip for bread.
Additionally, sesame oil can be used for oil pulling, massages, and as a natural moisturizer for the skin.
Sesame oil is a healthy and delicious ingredient that can provide many health benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve heart health, boost immunity, or promote healthy skin, sesame oil can help protect your health and wellbeing.