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Sesame seeds are black or white when broken. How to use sesame. About harm and contraindications

Sesame or sesame seeds are used not only in cooking, but also for medical and cosmetic purposes. The widespread use of sesame is explained by its chemical composition, thanks to which the seeds of the plant participate in the replenishment of calcium, alleviate the condition of various diseases, and have a beneficial effect on the skin and the human body.

What is sesame

Sesame or sesame is a herbaceous plant from the Pedalaceae family, the main places of growth of which are India and Africa. The photo shows that tropical sesame has flowers in white and purple shades. The most valuable oil plant of the genus is Indian sesame, which has taken its place of honor in the culinary world. It is used to prepare kozinaki, toppings for baked goods, aromatic seasonings, sauces, and also tahini, a special paste known in Arab and Jewish cuisines.

Sesame seeds are used to prepare sesame oil, useful in the production of cosmetics and medical ointments. There are 2 varieties of sesame - white and black. The latter type is much more expensive and healthier, since unrefined black grains are not polished. Sesame seeds taste like nuts. Hulled sesame seeds can be used for 6 months if stored in the refrigerator, and if frozen, then for about a year. The shelf life of sesame oil is 10 years.

Sesame - composition

The composition of sesame grains, in addition to minerals and vitamins, contains: water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, dietary fiber (fiber), ash, antioxidants (sesaminol, sesamol). The vitamin complex includes beta-carotene (A), thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (PP), folic and pantothenic acid(B9 and B5), pyridoxine (B6), tocopherol and choline (E, B4). If we consider the mineral composition of sesame, then there are the following macro- and microelements:

  • zinc;
  • iron;
  • selenium;
  • copper;
  • manganese;
  • phosphorus;
  • potassium;
  • sodium;
  • magnesium;
  • calcium.

Sesame seed calories

Sesame seeds are high in calories because more than half of them are fat. The average calorie content of sesame seeds per 100 grams is about 570 calories. What are the benefits of sesame seeds? They are rich in calcium. A unique fact is that 100 grams of sesame can fill the body’s daily need for a particularly important macronutrient. Calcium from sesame is better absorbed than milk.

Sesame - beneficial properties

Sesame is endowed with antioxidant properties, serves as a preventative against aging, and helps with weight loss. The benefits of sesame seeds in the cosmetics industry are their moisturizing and softening properties. The substances contained make it possible to use the product in the production of suntan creams and lotions, since it does not transmit ultraviolet radiation. Sesame is used in medicine as remedy not only for osteochondrosis, but also for the prevention of other diseases:

  • oncology;
  • hypertension;
  • fractures;
  • shortness of breath;
  • manifestations of asthma;
  • cough;
  • pneumonia.

The seeds are useful for diseases:

  • thyroid, pancreas;
  • liver;
  • gallbladder;
  • joint diseases;
  • hearts;
  • vessels;
  • digestive system.

What are the benefits of sesame for women?

To alleviate mastitis during breastfeeding (lactation), women need to apply compresses of vegetable oil and sesame powder to the inflamed areas. Sesame seeds reduce the risk of breast cancer and also promote blood flow to the pelvis. When mixed with poppy or flaxseeds, the product reveals its hidden properties, acting as a strong aphrodisiac. The main benefit of sesame for women is as a substitute for sex hormones, phytoestrogen, which is beneficial for the health of women after 45 years.

Benefits of sesame for men

Representatives of the stronger sex who are involved in bodybuilding will be interested to know that a large amount of proteins speeds up the process of muscle building and restores them after heavy exercise. The benefit of sesame seeds for men is its ability to reduce cholesterol levels due to the content of phytosterols, thereby increasing potency. Zinc, a substance directly involved in the production of testosterone, the most important male hormone, will help activate libido.

Harm of sesame

There have been no serious studies on contraindications to consuming sesame seeds, so there are only a few reasons not to eat the product. However, it is an undeniable fact that people have found benefits in sesame since ancient times, so we can conclude that it has high nutritional value. So what are the contraindications and harms of sesame seeds when its use will not be beneficial:

  • with individual intolerance;
  • if there are problems with the gastrointestinal tract, the seeds take a long time to digest;
  • during pregnancy (threat of miscarriage);
  • if eaten on an empty stomach (nausea will occur);
  • with increased blood clotting;
  • under the age of three years (due to the inability of the child’s body to break down fats).

Since ancient times, humanity has been using various seeds for the treatment and prevention of diseases, one of these seeds is sesame. Its benefits for women are very great, despite the fact that these seeds are not very popular in our country. Sesame has many varieties and is grown in India. The plant is used in cooking and folk medicine and has a huge amount valuable properties, especially for women’s health, which will be discussed in the article.

Composition and effect on the female body

Its composition will tell you how sesame is beneficial for women. It includes a large amount of fats, as well as proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Despite the high calorie content, it is difficult to gain weight from sesame. To do this, you need to eat it every day in huge quantities, because the fats contained in the seeds are extremely healthy.

Sesame is rich in saturated and unsaturated fats, dietary fiber, vitamins E and PP, group B. Saturated with minerals such as calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, which allows the use of sesame during pregnancy.

The oil that sesame seeds contain is rich in special active substances - phytosterols. They have enormous benefits for the human body, and for women, products containing them are especially recommended. Phytosterols rejuvenate and cleanse the body, help lower blood cholesterol levels, improve immunity and normalize the activity of the endocrine system. A distinctive feature of phytosterols is their ability to prolong the period of reproductive function in women.

Sesame contains a substance - sesamin, which has high antioxidant properties. Due to them, sesame oil can be stored for a long time and not oxidize. Sesame seeds and oil are beneficial for women and are valued by them for their anti-aging properties.

It should be noted the high calcium content in the seeds. Sesame will help during pregnancy or pregnancy without use medicines replenish the deficiency of this mineral. Many women suffer from calcium deficiency, whether in reproductive age or during menopause. One hundred grams of seeds or a couple of tablespoons of sesame oil will fill the daily requirement.

Eating seeds helps with many diseases. The benefits of sesame for women are to reduce the occurrence or development of mastopathy. It helps with diabetes or pulmonary diseases, asthma, bronchitis. The seeds are good at eliminating constipation, treating shortness of breath and increasing blood clotting; they are recommended by doctors for anemia.

Valuable seeds regulate the level of hormones in the blood, which allows them to be successfully used during pregnancy, menopause or other hormonal disorders. There is no need to doubt whether a nursing mother can eat sesame seeds. After all, it not only normalizes hormones, but also saturates the body of mother and child with essential vitamins and minerals.

Sesame helps with problems with the thyroid gland, which is often observed among the fair sex. In addition, it is a strong aphrodisiac.

Due to the content of more than fifty percent oil, as well as vitamins and amino acids, the seeds have a beneficial effect on the skin, hair and nails. This undoubtedly has a beneficial effect on the appearance of a girl or woman. The seeds will help when consumed internally, and the oil can not only be added to food, but also made into face or hair masks. You will be provided with a luxurious mane and soft velvety skin.

In adulthood, you should also consume sesame. The beneficial properties for older women are also very high. It improves memory, eliminates excess cholesterol, and has a beneficial effect on blood vessels and vision. It has a positive effect on blood vessels, the functioning of the heart and the digestive system.

Harm and contraindications

Undoubtedly, the beneficial properties of sesame for women are very high, however, like all products, it has its contraindications. Negative properties seeds are minimal, but they also need to be taken into account:

  1. You should not eat sesame on an empty stomach or if there is a malfunction in the gastrointestinal tract.
  2. Do not consume sesame if you are at risk of miscarriage.
  3. Seeds are not recommended if you are prone to thrombophlebitis.

Healing seeds are increasingly gaining popularity, so many mothers are wondering whether sesame seeds can be used while breastfeeding. In the absence of the diseases and symptoms listed above, use it without fear.

How to use sesame

Sesame seeds taste sweetish, with a nutty undertone. It is often used to make oils, and in the seeds themselves its share reaches sixty percent. Sesame is valued during breastfeeding and pregnancy.

In Asian countries, sesame is more common than here. It is added to various dishes, meat and vegetables. In our country, it is more often used in the production of confectionery and bakery products, bread or oriental sweets.

However, it can also be added to various vegetable salads; oil from it can easily replace sunflower or olive oil and be used as a sauce ingredient or salad dressing. It is added to meat or fish, and sushi and rolls are prepared with it.

Sesame, which has very high benefits for women, should be included in your daily diet. It can be used not only in baking, but also in preparing meat and vegetable dishes. And eating it will help maintain women's health and youth.

Watch the video recipe for the food of the gods:

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 beneficial properties and is often used in alternative oriental medicine. Nowadays it’s fashionable to turn to folk healing recipes for help, maybe you should add sesame to your first aid kit?

What kind of plant is sesame?

Sesame or sesame is a genus of annual herbaceous plants common in many African countries. It includes 26 species. Indian Sesame is the most commonly consumed food. This species grows not only in India, as is clear from the name, but also in other eastern countries. In total, there are 15 countries in the world exporting sesame to all corners of the planet.

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

How sesame is consumed in different countries

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

Sesame oil is produced from sesame seeds, and in some countries it is more common than sunflower, olive or corn oil. Use it similarly to any other vegetable oil. It is customary to sprinkle buns and puff pastries with sesame seeds and add them to the dough when baking sweets.

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

Sesame can be used to make 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 is also added to pies. In China, the seeds are used to make the favorite national delicacy - sesame balls. The Japanese make a salty seasoning called gomashio from sesame seeds, which they add to most classic dishes in their cuisine. Interestingly, sesame does not grow in Japan, but this country is the largest importer of sesame in the world.

In addition to cooking, sesame oil 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 is almost not contained in the seeds that we sell; it is lost when peeling sesame. But the seeds contain a large amount of natural antioxidants - ascorbic acid and tocopherol. Moreover, due to the high oil content in the seeds, fat-soluble tocopherol is absorbed almost completely. In addition to vitamins, sesame is rich in essential amino acids. Among the amino acids it contains lysine, methionine and tryptophan.

These seeds also contain a lot of microelements. Sesame contains on average about 10% of the daily dose of substances such as manganese, magnesium and calcium and 20% of the daily requirement of copper. However, it is worth considering 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 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 beneficial 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 conversion of fatty acids into fats is blocked and the breakdown of fatty acids is accelerated. That’s why this substance is included in dietary supplements for weight loss.
  2. Saturation. Another useful property for those losing weight. Sesame seeds are very filling; a small amount of them allows you not to feel hungry for a long time, giving up unhealthy snacks on the go.
  3. Protection against atherosclerosis. Sesame contains an analogue of cholesterol - phytosterol. It replaces compounds 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’s why vitamins E and C contained in sesame are so important.
  5. Acceleration of gastrointestinal motility. Sesame oil has this property. It enhances the movement of chyme along 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 levels. Thanks to the lipids contained in the seeds, daily use of sesame by women over 50 allows them to balance hormonal background and reduce the symptoms of menopause.

In addition, sesame oil is used for colds, rubbing it on the skin in the projection of the lungs. Sesame oil is also 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 beneficial 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. This is dangerous due to thrombosis and embolism.

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

Optimal daily dose sesame seeds – 10-15g. Moreover, it can be eaten either on its own or as an addition or seasoning to main dishes. It’s worth taking into account all the sesame seeds you eat.

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

Video: medicinal properties of sesame

Sesame – common in the countries of the Far East and Central Asia annual plant. The seeds are found in oblong fruits, shaped like boxes. Before adding it to a dish, it is necessary to study the beneficial properties of sesame and contraindications - due to the high concentration of minerals, vitamins and fatty acids, it can bring not only benefits, but also harm to the body.

The seeds of this plant have a high calorie content - 100 grams contain more than 550 kcal. In nature, seeds are found in various shapes, shades and colors - yellow, brown, white and black. The difference is only in the color of the shell of the grains: in their purified form, they are all predominantly white.

Sesame oil

The most widespread are Indian (oriental) sesame seeds. The oil made from these seeds is especially valuable. The oil tastes like olive oil, but has a richer aroma and mild taste, without the characteristic bitterness. It is used for preparing and seasoning dishes, and can be used internally and externally for medicinal purposes.

This oil is not suitable for frying; when the temperature rises, it quickly ignites and begins to release carcinogenic substances.

Oil obtained from white seeds is considered to be of higher quality. In the cuisines of many peoples of the world, it is used for sprinkling baked goods, preparing desserts and various dishes. Sesame oil is a common ingredient in many cosmetic products - moisturizers, masks for sensitive skin, massage oils and makeup remover lotions. The beneficial properties of sesame seeds for the body have contributed to its spread in many areas - cooking, medicine, cosmetology.

Compound

Sesame has a rich composition. So, it contains a huge amount of vitamins, mineral compounds and. Due to this, adding a small amount of seeds to the diet helps normalize the balance of micro- and macroelements. In medicine, these seeds are known as the strongest antioxidant, thanks to the sesamin they contain. It is advisable to use it as a prevention of cancer.
The main components of sesame are the substances beta-sitosterol and photosterol, which help reduce cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerosis. The seeds favorably improve the quality of hair and nails, as well as blood composition.

Benefits of calcium

100 g of product contains 1.4 g per day per adult. The high calcium content in sesame helps to enhance human growth, strengthen joints and the musculoskeletal system. In no large quantities it can be eaten by pregnant women - calcium and riboflavin contribute to the normal development and growth of the fetus.

Benefits for women

Sesame oil compresses help eliminate lumps that form in breastfeeding women due to mastitis. Sesame in combination with other seeds (poppy and) acts as a powerful aphrodisiac, affecting both women and men. It is especially recommended to consume sesame for women over 45 years of age. The substances it contains act as a natural analogue of sex hormones.

Adding sesame to the diet of older people is an excellent prevention of osteoporosis.

Due to its high fat content, the oil is widely used in the cosmetic field.

Effect on digestion and body weight

Thiamine, which the seeds are rich in, helps normalize metabolism and stabilizes the functioning of the nervous system. The seeds also contain vitamin PP, which improves digestion. Sesame is also used to get rid of excess weight (we recommend reading). Chewing a small amount of raw seeds can dull the feeling of hunger for a long time. But, given the high calorie content of oil and seeds, you should not abuse it. Eating sesame in large quantities can lead to obesity.

Healing properties

Sesame oil has a beneficial effect on blood clotting ability. It is used in the manufacture of wound-healing emulsions, ointments and plasters. It is also used for hemorrhagic diathesis and as a natural remedy.

The oil is very popular among bodybuilders - it contains up to 20% easily digestible protein, which helps increase muscle mass.

Contraindications

It is worth considering that, in addition to the beneficial properties of sesame seeds, there are also contraindications. For example, some people have an individual intolerance to this product. Since sesame increases blood clotting, it is not recommended for people suffering from thrombosis.

The presence of a large amount of calcium in sesame can aggravate the course of urolithiasis. Sesame oil should be excluded from the diet while taking aspirin - even in a healthy person, this can provoke the deposition of kidney stones. It is not advisable to consume the seeds on an empty stomach - they can cause nausea and thirst. Sesame may be harmful to pregnant women if taken in quantities exceeding the daily requirement. In this case, there is a threat of miscarriage or the possibility of having a baby with hypocalcemia.

Possible harm

It is not recommended to introduce sesame into the diet of children under three years of age. Children's body is not able to completely break down the fats present in large quantities in the seeds. It is not advisable to take sesame and oil from its seeds for people suffering from high acidity - it can provoke irritation of the internal epithelium of the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Regular consumption of seeds in large quantities leads to the development of constipation and disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Hypotensive people should refrain from consuming sesame oil - it can further reduce blood pressure, cause nausea, loss of strength and dizziness (we recommend reading).

When roasted, the seeds can only serve as a savory seasoning.

After heat treatment, the product completely loses its beneficial qualities.

Beneficial substances can be preserved if you take sesame seeds raw or by pre-soaking them in water. For the preparation of exotic dishes, black sesame is most often used - the beneficial properties and taste of which are preserved only in its raw form. White seeds, on the contrary, become most fragrant only after heat treatment.
Sesame is best absorbed in crushed form. It is advisable to chew it well or pre-grind it in a coffee grinder. It is better to sprinkle the product on confectionery products at the very end of baking - this way it will not have time to lose all its beneficial properties.

Germination of seeds

An innovative way to use sesame is to sprout its seeds. Sprouts have virtually no contraindications and can be included in the diet of adults and children. They help the body recover from illness and gain strength after prolonged stress. Seeds in a natural shell - black or brown - are best suited for this purpose.

Selection and storage

When choosing sesame seeds, you must pay attention to their appearance. They should be crumbly and dry. It is desirable that the packaging be transparent. Fresh seeds should not leave a bitter taste in your mouth. The optimal way to store seeds in a shell is an airtight container in a dry, ventilated area.
Peeled ones can only be stored at low temperatures - in a freezer or refrigerator, otherwise they will very quickly become rancid. They can be stored frozen for a year. Oil obtained from sesame seeds has an unlimited shelf life. It can be stored in any conditions.

There are about 35 types of sesame, which grow mainly in Africa (subtropical and tropical). The plant loves warmth and the most optimal temperature for it is 25-30°. The seeds will sprout only if the soil warms up to a temperature of 18°. The first thirty days, sesame grows very slowly. The danger comes from weeds, which can easily choke out weak shoots. The oblong fruits contain seeds. They are widely used in medicine, cooking and for oil production.

It is still impossible to say for sure which country is the birthplace of sesame. Some believe that the plant first appeared in South-West Africa, while others are inclined to think that it was in India. In any case, the sesame that has taken root on our lands is called Indian. It is believed that it was he who was cultivated by man.

What types of sesame are there?

The seeds may be white, brown, black, red or yellow. It all depends on the variety. It is believed that deeper color is an indicator of better aroma and quality.

Black sesame

All seeds are useful, but there is an opinion that black sesame is one of the components of the famous elixir of immortality. Black sesame is actually more beneficial. In eastern countries they still believe that it will help preserve youth and avoid old age. And in fact, black seeds are the highest level of antioxidant. In addition to beneficial properties, they have a stronger and more pleasant aroma than all others.

White sesame

It is less useful than its dark brother, but is found on sale much more often. The white color is due to the fact that the seeds were polished solely to serve as a decoration in confectionery products. These grains are great for making sesame milk, which turns out completely white. However, for raw consumption, it is best to pay attention to dark varieties.

In fact, the seeds, which taste so good, have unusual properties that KhozOboz is ready to introduce its reader to.

Useful and medicinal properties of sesame

Many people are more familiar with sesame seeds as a seasoning. There are many different versions of why sesame began to be grown. Perhaps because of the pleasant taste of the seeds, or maybe because of their nutritional value and benefits. But this is not so important. The main thing is that already in ancient times people knew and highly valued sesame for its excellent qualities. There have always been many secrets and legends around this little seed. Thus, the ancient Assyrians were firmly convinced that the gods themselves drank sesame wine before creating the world. The Egyptians and the peoples of Ancient China considered sesame to be the most useful of spices. And in Ancient Babylon it was a symbol of immortality. Of course, this plant is unlikely to provide eternal life, but it will certainly prolong youth and improve health.

Even the great Avicenna himself did not ignore this plant. In his ancient works you can find the properties that he endowed with sesame. As a doctor he believed:

  1. Sesame has the ability to resolve certain types of tumors.
  2. A bandage soaked in sesame and rose oil will help relieve very severe headaches.
  3. Regular use of sesame will help make your voice sonorous and clear.
  4. The decoction will relieve belching.
  5. Sesame included in the diet will speed up the body’s recovery process in case of serious physical activity, will help neutralize the effects of stress.

It is difficult to say how effective Avicenna's advice is. However, there is probably some truth to them. Sesame contains zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamins B and E, as well as a significant portion of calcium, and, of course, a high content of proteins, vitamin C and amino acids. There is also phytin. This is a substance that helps restore the balance between minerals and beta-sitosterol, which in turn helps reduce blood cholesterol levels. Sesame is also preferred by those who practice yoga.

Sesame seed oil

Translated from Latin, this name means “oil plant.” Oil makes up 55%, which is a significant proportion. Sesame oil contains glycerides of oleic (up to 40%), linolenic (up to 52%), stearic, palmitic acids and other fatty acids. Obtained by cold pressing, it can preserve not only useful substances for a long time, but also a pleasant aromatic taste. The finished oil retains its beneficial properties for about eight years.

In general, if you evaluate the usefulness of vegetable oils, then sesame oil takes an honorable third place after the leading almond and pistachio oils. An undoubted advantage is its affordable price. In medicine, sesame oil has also found wide use as a basis for the production of fat-soluble drugs that are introduced into the body by injection. It is also included in oil emulsions, patches and ointments. In addition, sesame oil is recommended for oral administration in the treatment of essential thrombopenia, thrombopenic purpura and hemorrhagic diathesis. The oil helps improve blood clotting and increases the number of platelets in it. The best grades of sesame oil are sometimes used instead of almond and olive oils.

The use of cosmos oil in the form of enemas gives a mild laxative effect. The oil is recommended for constipation or indigestion.

Sesame oil can be used to strengthen teeth and gums. This measure is not only health-improving, but also preventive against periodontal disease, oral infections and caries. The oil perfectly heals cracks, wounds, burns, and soothes pain. An oil mask will make your hair shiny and healthy, and protect it from the negative effects of sea and chlorinated water. The skin after the procedure will become smooth and radiant. Magnesium, which is part of sesame, has a calming effect and relaxes the muscles of the body and face. Therefore, a sesame mask will not only give the skin an additional boost of energy and youth, but also a fresh glow on the cheeks. In addition, this oil is one of the few products that have the property of absorbing ultraviolet radiation. Due to this, it is often used in the production of sunscreen cosmetics. Nowadays, more and more manufacturers of hair cosmetics use sesame oil as a base for the production of mousses, masks, conditioners and shampoos.

One more useful property of sesame can be mentioned. It is the main source of lime in the human body. It has been proven that eating at least ten grams of sesame every day can replenish the required amount of this substance.

Just a little oil a day can ease breathing in case of bronchial asthma, dry cough or shortness of breath. It neutralizes the increased acidity of gastric juice and blood acidity, helps the body recover from exhaustion, and improves health. Used as an effective anthelmintic.

The oil is used mainly internally. It has a slightly specific taste, which is why not everyone likes it. When mixed with linseed and poppy oils, sesame also acts as a strong aphrodisiac. This effect applies to both men and women equally. Sesame oil has found wide application in sports such as bodybuilding. It helps increase muscle mass.

The oil is recommended for use in cases of metabolic disorders in the body, joint diseases, hyperfunction of the thyroid gland and intestinal colic. It has a positive effect on inflammation of the gallbladder, kidney stones, anemia and internal bleeding.

In its properties, sesame oil is very similar to olive oil. Unfortunately, with so many beneficial properties, sesame does not contain vitamin A, and vitamin E is present in very small quantities. However, a significant amount of other useful elements more than compensates for this.

Sesame seeds

And although sesame is mainly grown for its oil, the seeds also have their uses. It is known for sure that in the Middle Ages, people who cared about their health chewed one teaspoon of sesame seeds daily. It was believed to be very beneficial, especially for women. The seeds promote increased blood flow during menstruation. It has been proven that sesame significantly reduces the risk of mastopathy or other unwanted inflammation of the mammary glands. A compress of crushed seeds helps with mastitis. A decoction of sesame seeds is used as a lotion for hemorrhoids. One tablespoon of ground seeds before meals will help remove toxins from the body and lose a few extra pounds.

Vitamin E helps rejuvenate the body, and phosphorus and zinc will help prevent osteoporosis. Regular consumption of sesame seeds improves intestinal function, thereby preventing diseases of the digestive system.

An important condition for the effectiveness of this product is thorough chewing. Only then will sesame give off all its beneficial properties. Unfortunately, the seeds spoil very quickly and become bitter due to their high oil content. Therefore, they should be stored in a dark place, after drying well beforehand, and not stored for a long time. It is for this reason that they are processed into oil, which can be stored for a long time.

Sesame leaves

Sesame leaves are used much less frequently than seeds. Fresh leaves are served with vegetables with various sauces or fried in batter. In addition, rice and vegetables are wrapped in them, and it turns out something like Japanese sushi. Pickled sesame leaves are added to stewed meat, and this should be done at the very end of cooking so that they do not lose their flavor. A decoction of sesame leaves will make your hair smooth and relieve the scalp from eczema and dandruff. Hair will become thicker and its growth will increase.

In some countries, the leaves are a common product and are highly valued due to properties such as:

  1. High content of mineral elements so necessary for human health.
  2. They have a strong, pleasant nutty smell.
  3. Dishes prepared using sesame leaves not only have an exotic taste, but also an unusual appearance that will amaze any picky guest.

Unfortunately, sesame leaves are not so easy to find in stores in our country.

Eating sesame

Sesame seeds can often be found as an excellent addition to baking and for making kozinaki. The oil has also found wide application. All this is undoubtedly due to the beneficial substances it contains. Sesame goes well with almost any product. And in order for its aroma to become brighter and richer, before adding sesame to food, you should heat it a little in a frying pan. You can sprinkle ground grains on porridge, salad or sushi. Sesame is used to make tahini paste (tahini, tahini, tahina), which is popular in oriental cuisine. It is served with a large number of dishes.

In Arabic cooking, tahini is a sauce for a variety of dishes, and in Cyprus, pies are baked with this paste.

The Japanese sprinkle salted seeds on rice, and Africans consider sesame the main ingredient for making soups. In India, sesame is an excellent seasoning for salads, and in Southeast Asia it is the basis for making crispy sweets. In France and Italy, aromatic bread is baked with seeds, which is in great demand. Americans prefer to bake cookies and waffles with sesame seeds, which can be both salty and sweet.

Unfortunately, the beneficial properties of sesame are not in great demand in Slavic countries and therefore the seeds are mainly used to prepare such delicacies as halva or as a topping for loaves, buns or crispbreads. KhozOboz offers original solutions for using this product.

Sesame for children

Using sesame in a child's diet will undoubtedly bring great benefits due to the large number of substances beneficial to the growing body. Half a glass of grains contains three times more calcium than the same amount of milk. The constituent substances help protect the liver and normalize blood pressure. Cold pressed oil is considered the most beneficial. The daily norm for a child is one teaspoon of oil. Although some strict restrictions There is no guideline for use, because sesame does not cause allergies at all. However, recently you can encounter allergic reactions to sesame or, possibly, to the products with which it is prepared (peanuts, hazelnuts, cashews). In any case, the main thing is a sense of proportion. Sesame oil is a very good antibacterial agent for nails and skin. In addition, it has a warming effect. It is not for nothing that in India, newborns receive a ten-minute massage using sesame oil. It has been scientifically proven that children develop more actively than their peers, get sick much less often and have sound, restful sleep.

Is it possible for nursing mothers?

It is not only possible to eat sesame while breastfeeding, but even necessary. It significantly reduces the risk of mastopathy. In addition, sesame helps to cope with constipation, which often occurs after childbirth. And vitamins and microelements will be useful for both mother and newborn.

Sesame for pregnant women

In ancient times, women were required to eat a handful of seeds per day. In addition to all the positive properties, sesame increases blood flow during menstruation. It is this property, which is so valued in everyday life, that can become dangerous during pregnancy. On the one hand, a high calcium content contributes to the proper formation of the skeletal system of the unborn baby, and on the other hand, it provokes the threat of miscarriage. Therefore, sesame during pregnancy is still unacceptable, no matter how much you would like.

Sesame contraindications

However, it should be understood that even with so many advantages, sesame has qualities that can cause harm to the body. Here's what to pay attention to:

  1. When consuming grains raw empty stomach they can cause nausea and even vomiting. This happens because the gastric mucosa is very susceptible to this product.
  2. Individual intolerance.
  3. Considering that sesame improves blood clotting, it should never be consumed by people with blood clots or thrombosis, so as not to worsen the course of the disease.
  4. Those who suffer from urolithiasis should also avoid sesame.
  5. Sesame is a high-calorie product and is therefore contraindicated for those who adhere to various diets.

As you can see, there are not so many contraindications, and yet they should be taken into account so that the useful product does not cause serious health problems.

Recently, more and more people are turning their attention to food that not only has a distinctive taste, but also has medicinal and preventive properties. Therefore, all of the listed positive properties of sesame should definitely interest any person who cares about their own health. And it’s not at all necessary to immediately run out and buy a whole bag of sesame seeds, but it’s quite possible to pamper yourself with a spoonful of butter or a fragrant bun.