An Overview on Nutritional Composition and Therapeutic Benefits of Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum)

Sesame seeds commonly known as gingelly seeds or til is one of the oldest oilseed cultivated all over the world with India and China being the largest producers. Both black and white sesame seeds are abundant in not only macro or micronutrients but also contain plethora of bioactive components such as lignans and phytosterols contributing to it being a good source of antioxidants. Presence of sesamin, sesaminol, myristic acid and lecithin in sesame seeds attributes to its antiinflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-cancer properties. Sesame oil is also known for its anti-microbial activity. Sesame is also an important crop mentioned in Ayurveda and is used in shirodhara, a body relaxing technique. Its oil is also used as skin softener and is utilized in the treatment of cracked heels. Seasame oil can also be substituted with regular oil and its seeds are used as garnishes in breads, biscuits and crackers. Til chikki and laddo’s are also prepared in Indian households. Though it is widely used, consumption of even two sesame seeds might trigger allergic reactions in few people. In this review article topics like nutritional composition, therapeutic benefits, uses, products developed and safety and dosage of sesame is discussed. Keywords: sesame, sesamin, sesaminol, lignans, phytosterols