Returning with another nourishing oil, this time focusing on sesame seed oil. Known as til in Hindi, this oil is highly preferred in South India where most culinary endeavors involve its use.
For millennia, Sesame Seed Oil has served as a therapeutic oil. It is extolled in the Vedas for its remarkable benefits to human health. Isn’t that intriguing? Let’s delve into the wonders of this oil.
Assortments of Sesame Oil
- Cold-pressed sesame oil displays a pale yellow hue.
- Indian sesame oil (known as gingerly or til oil) has a rich golden color.
- East Asian variants of sesame oils typically exhibit a deep brown shade. This robust color and flavor are derived from roasted/toasted sesame seeds.
Health Perks of Sesame Oil
- Beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
- A study found that sesame seed oil has a positive impact on individuals with hypertension.
- Research indicates that massaging infants with sesame oil enhances their growth and post-massage sleep quality compared to alternative oils like mineral oil. Moreover, this oil stimulates brain development and fortifies the nervous system.
- Effective in enhancing cardiovascular well-being and regulating cholesterol levels.
- Sesame oil is a versatile substance packed with a variety of nutrients vital for bone health. It contains zinc, promoting strong and healthy bones.
- Rich in copper, an essential nutrient that aids in alleviating rheumatoid arthritis.
- Helps in preventing diseases like osteoporosis and colon cancer due to its calcium content.
- Supports vascular and respiratory health.
- Some studies suggest that this oil may aid in managing cases of depression.
- Transitioning to skincare (for the ladies out there), sesame oil can serve as a moisturizer, emollient, and anti-inflammatory treatment. Although thick in texture, it easily penetrates the skin. Notably, sesame oil is recognized for trapping toxins on the skin and purging them when washing, making it a popular pre-bath application. Surprisingly, it can even double as a sunscreen lotion – a revelation that is truly astonishing! Why splurge on expensive creams when this affordable elixir is available.
- Known for potentially thwarting various types of cancer including:
- Leukemia
- Multiple Myeloma
- Colon Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Lung Cancer
Oil Pulling for Oral Health
Sesame seed oil has been utilized for millennia in Ayurveda for oral health through a practice known as “oil pulling.” This entails swishing sesame seed oil in the mouth for extended periods and is purported to:
- Prevent tooth decay,
- Combat bleeding gums,
- Alleviate dry throat,
- Strengthen teeth, gums, and the jaw.
I have personally spotted sachets of sesame oil designed for oil pulling at local grocery stores here in Chennai.
Clinical research now validates its efficacy in comparison to chemical mouthwashes available in the market, showcasing improvements in plaque-induced gingivitis and reducing the likelihood of oral plaque formation.
With its myriad of internal and external benefits, you are bound to be captivated by this oil.
Keep fit and embrace a healthy lifestyle ?
