Sesame

The black sesame secret to good health and beauty

by Cindy L.

(NaturalNews) What health benefits can the small black seed of the sesame plant offer? Some people might have read about how black sesame seeds are rich in antioxidants and various nutrients. But that is about all. They have no idea that there are actually many more valuable health and beauty benefits of consuming black sesame seeds.

Yet in a particular part of the world where the Chinese reside, knowledge on the use of this black seed for good health and beauty has been passed down from generation to generation. It is time others learned from the Chinese about the amazing "secrets" of the black sesame.

The seed of longevity

There are many Chinese stories of how consuming black sesame seeds can bring about longevity and beauty even at an old age. This association of the sesame seed with longevity is similarly found in many early Hindu traditions, where the seed is considered a symbol of immortality.

What is the link between the black seed and longevity and beauty?

Based on theories in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is believed that aging, the toils of life and worrying could bring about deficiencies in bodily functions. In particular, the "Liver" and "Kidney" come to be deficient in "Jing" and "Blood". This deficiency in turn brings about aging-related symptoms like blurry vision, graying of hair, ringing in the ears, as well as weakness in the bones and joints.

What the black sesame seed does is then provide the nutrients needed to correct such a "Liver-Kidney" deficiency, as such helping the body to delay the onset of aging-related symptoms, at times even reversing the symptoms after they arise. The hope of retaining their good eyesight, having more black hair and keeping ringing eyes at bay are some important reasons why many Chinese consume black sesame seeds on a regular basis.

The science behind the anti-aging seed

While there may not be many scientific studies done on the anti-aging benefits of black sesame as yet, studies on the nutritional value of the black sesame seed provide some support to the Chinese use of the seeds for their anti-aging effects.

For example, the seed is rich in B vitamins and iron, and deficiencies in these nutrients have been linked to premature graying of hair, memory impairments and hearing loss. It is also rich in calcium and zinc, important minerals for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. The high magnesium content in the seed has been found to lower blood pressure and prevent the spasm of airways that leads to asthma.

The seed also contains substances known as sesamin and sesamolin, which are found to increase vitamin E supplies (important for skin health) and lower cholesterol levels. Sesamin is also found to protect the (anatomical) liver from free radicals, as such keeping the liver in good health.

The fiber, lignans (antioxidants) and various nutrients (e.g. phytosterol, calcium) found in the seed also confers protective benefits against the development of various cancers, such as colon cancer.

With the nutritious black seeds paving the way for a strong heart, clear blood vessels, sturdy bones, a properly-functioning liver (important for detoxification), active mental functions, clear vision and hearing abilities, well-nourished hair and skin even during the later stages of life, as well as reduced risk of heart disease and cancer, it is no wonder that the Chinese who consumes large quantities of black sesame seeds is observed to enjoy longevity.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.insights-on-health.com

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=84

Trivieri, Jr., Larry, and Anderson, John W. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. 2nd ed. New York, USA: Celestial Arts, 2002. Print.

Murray, Michael, ND., Pizzorno, Joseph, ND., and Pizzorno, Lara, MA, LMT. The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods. New York, NY: Atria Books, 2005. Print.

Pitchford, Paul. Healing With Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition. 3rd ed. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books, 2002. Print.

About the author:

Cindy L. has a keen interest in natural healing. She was previously trained in Psychology and is currently receiving training in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has written on depression (atHolisticDepressionHelp.com) as well as other ailments (at Insights On Health.com).

Her belief in holistic living extends beyond health - her passion for green living can be seen in her website at All Recycling Facts.com.

SESAME SEED , THE SWEAT OF LORD VISHNU - CAPT AJIT VADAKAYIL

DIVINE FOOD , AYURVEDA OIL 6000 BC , TIL , ELLUNDA , REWADI , SEED OF IMMORTALITY, MAKARA SANKRANTI LAMP OIL, TILOTHAKAM DURING PINDA DAANAM TO DEAD ANCESTORS - CAPT AJIT VADAKAYIL

Both Sesame seed and Darbha ( Kusa ) grass emanated from the body of Lord Vishnu. For Hindus Sesame seed is hence a divine seed.

As per Garuda Purana , an offering of Sesame seeds to ancestors (shraddha) prevents negative energies from posing obstacles in the homam rites.

Above : Garuda is the conscious Vimana or vehicle of Lord Vishnu. It could assume terrifying proportions and could block out the sun.

During Samudra manthan , the fibres flaked off the back of the giant tortoise by Mount Meru got mixed with Amrit drops and was swept ashore , from which Darbha grass grew.

Every Hindu knows that while doing Shradda for dead ancestors he has to sit of Darbha grass and also put a ring of this grass on his right hand 4th finger on which he pours holy water into the earthen pot holding the cremated bone fragments..

During Samudra Manthan Lord Vishnu’s sweat fell on the ground and this became Til or Sesame seeds.

Sesame seed oil , Coconut oil and ghee of vedic humped cows ( A2 milk ) are the only oils used by 6000 year old Ayurveda.

Sesame seed is mentioned as a seed of immortality in our Vedas written in Sanskrit 7000 years ago. Sesame seeds first appeared in India , and then it spread over the rest of the world. Even today India is the largest exporter of Sesame seeds.

Ancient Indian medical texts expound the use of Sesame seeds.

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FATHERS OF SURGERY AND MEDICINE 4200 BC VADAKAYIL

Ancient Indian soldiers used to carry a pouch of Sesame seeds as military rations.

During Makara Sankranti all lamps in Hindu houses and temples are lit using sesame oil.

Last week the world's largest restaurant franchise chain, McDonald's made a monumental announcement regarding its hamburger buns to save 14 million USD per year..

Above : On an average there were 180 sesame seeds on a Big Mac .

The fast food giant will soon be eliminating the sesame seeds from its Big Macs and also from all of its other hamburger buns.

They had received compalints from customers reporting sesame seeds getting caught in their teeth and dentures.

TEE HEEE !

These seame seeds was the only good thing in the burger—whose lettuce and veggies were GM and grown using pesticides on chemical fertilizer laden fields. The cheese slice inside is made of toxic A1 humpless cow milk. The beef inside is hormone and enzyme injected meat.

Sesame seed has very high oil content. The crop survives drought as well as presence of excess water and requires very little care.

Nutritional value per 100 g

Energy 2,372 kJ (567 kcal)

Protein 16.96 g

Calcium 131 mg (13%)

Iron 7.78 mg (60%)

Magnesium 346 mg (97%)

Phosphorus 774 mg (111%)

Potassium 406 mg (9%)

Sodium 39 mg (3%)

Zinc 7.16 mg (75%)

Vegetarians must note the high amount of protein in Sesame seed.

As far as dynamics of essential minerals like calcium, Magnesium, Sodium and Potassium are concerned -

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DYNAMICS WITHIN HUMAN CELL, WHAT IGNORANT DOCTORS MUST KNOW VADAKAYIL

One cup of natural sesame seeds has 1404 milligrams of calcium good for bone health , while one cup of whole milk has only 291 milligrams of calcium.

In addition to promoting healthy skin, zinc has also been shown to boost bone mineral density and bone health as a whole. There is a correlation between zinc deficiency and osteoporosis in the hip and spine area. The high amounts of magnesium and zinc present in the seed help in strengthening blood circulation and neural impulses.

Sesame seeds are a naturally rich source of phytosterols ( 410 mg per 100 gms ). They have the ability to help lower your LDL, or “bad” cholesterol levels. Normally, cholesterol , both from your food and liver is absorbed through the small intestine and circulates into the bloodstream. Phytosterols, however, are minimally absorbed from the small intestine, so they do not enter into the bloodstream and are instead excreted out of the body.

Sesame seeds contain 18% Selenium which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells from damage. Sesame seeds prevent the onset of Prostrate cancer. Selenium is a trace mineral and a vital nutrient to fight against cancer and heart diseases. This is important for metabolic functions and proper cell functioning in the spleen, pancreas kidneys, liver, and testes.

Selenium is also required by the skin for healing burn injuries and other skin conditions. Selenium in the diet can lower heart disease. Selenium can reduce oxidation of cholesterol and clotting of blood. Selenium has the antioxidants useful in sperm formation and thus, it boosts the sperm’s mobility. This increases the sperm’s chances in fertilizing the egg.

It also reduces birth defects in infants. Selenium boosts glucose and regulates metabolic processes. Selenium helps to maintain thyroid related hormones.

Selenium helps to fight free radical cells. It forms antioxidants in the body to fight free radicals which damage cells and lead to aging. Selenium is considered a natural method to cure and get rid of acne.

Selenium increases the strength of the immune system. Selenium boosts the efficiency of white blood cells and thus, helps our bodies to remain healthy and virus free. Infections and viruses can cause cold and flu, diarrhoea, sneezing, etc.

Selenium boosts hair growth and reduces dandruff. Selenium is included in many anti-dandruff shampoos to fight against dandruff. Selenium can utilize foods that contain protein and boost growth of hair. Zinc and selenium are advised by doctors for hair loss. This helps in proper functioning of hormones and increased growth of hair. They can be used to treat many hair problems as gray hair, hair loss, dandruff, etc.

Selenium is an anti-inflammatory agent. Combining selenium with vitamin E can cure chronic conditions like psoriasis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and eczema.

Sesame seeds contain 45% Manganese. Manganese helps maintain bone density and thus prevent fractures, osteoporosis and spinal bone loss in women after menopause. It helps to form glucosamine, required for bone cartilage and lubricating fluid in joints and thus joint mobility.

Manganese helps to nourish brain cells and the nerves. It helps transmission of electrical signal in body and thus proper coordination of brain, nerves and muscles. Studies have shown that epilepsy or seizure disorder are associated with low manganese levels in blood and thus can be treated with manganese supplements.

Manganese participate in production of sex hormones and maintaining reproductive health. It is involved in normal reproductive and function of mammary glands. Reproductive function in manganese deficient patients is characterized by defective ovulation, ovarian and testicular degeneration, and increased infant mortality.

Manganese is an anti-oxidant and helps remove free radicals from body. Significant health benefits of manganese have been found for women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome. It reduces cramps, mood swings and other PMS symptoms in women.Manganese is crucial for treating blood sugar and insulin issues.

Manganese improves thyroid function and any deficiency may result in hypothyroidism. Manganese deficiency causes nausea, vomiting, dizziness, skin rash, high blood sugar or bone loss. Prolonged deficiency of manganese may cause retarded growth, digestive disorders, abnormal bone development and deformities, sterility and sexual impotence in men.

The zinc ( 19% ) in sesame seeds promotes bone health and prevents osteoporosis later in life. Zinc is good for sexual health and it can help testosterone and sperm production in men.

Sesame seeds contain Tryptophan(38%). During the processing of protein, the body creates serotonin which helps to regulate appetite and mood. When the body makes serotonin, some of it is converted to melatonin, which helps to normalize sleep patterns.

Disorders such as deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are caused by low levels of serotonin in the brain.

Oleic acid is a mono-unsaturated fatty acid present in the sesame seeds. This heart healthy mono-unsaturated fatty acid will lower your LDL, increase HLD or good cholesterol. Therefore, it will support your heart and will also save it from arteriosclerosis and strokes.

Oleic acid is one of the better fats for humans to consume. It can lower total cholesterol levels by raising blood concentrations of high-density lipoproteins while reducing low-density lipoproteins, also known as the “bad” cholesterol. It has been shown to slow the development of heart disease and also promotes the production of antioxidants, elements that can help trap harmful free radicals in the body.

The acid is often able to penetrate past the outer skin layer, which leads to a much longer-lasting and more intense moisture. While standard lotions and creams may simply sit on the top of the skin, those made with omega-9 fatty acids typically go much deeper.

Most bee and ant species secrete the acid as a pheromone, which is a type of hormone that is detected by smell. When they die, their corpses tend to emit high levels of this pheromone, possibly as a warning to others. If the insect died because of something it ate or some other danger in the area, the acid’s smell will serve as a warning to others to stay away.

It may also be a signal for colony members to come and collect the corpse, a common practice in species that perform group rituals for fallen members. Probably this is why Sesame seed is included in the Pindam rice balls for dead ancestor rites. The moment you clap your hands the raven crows come in droves.

Oleic acid is an omega nine fatty acid and it has the ability of lowering the blood pressure, decreasing the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood and increasing the levels of good cholesterol in the blood. The molecules of the oleic acid are larger than most other molecules so they do not bond with them that easily which means that oleic acid may come in very handy when it comes to improving the blood flow and preventing the formation of the plaque in the arteries. Since it deals with the low density cholesterol in the high density cholesterol it is very good at improving one’s overall quality of health. Oleic acid is also known for its potent antioxidant properties.

Oleic acid is very efficient in strengthening the cell membrane integrity, boosting the power of memory, optimizing the functioning of the brain, improving the functions of the heart, aiding the circulatory system, reducing all symptoms commonly related to arthritis, boosting the energy, aiding the weight loss, relieving the symptoms of asthma, reducing the insulin resistance, moisturizing the skin and strengthening the hair. It also prevents heart failure, cancer, angina pectoris,

atheroscletosis, high blood pressure and stroke.

Sesame seeds contain Thiamin B1 which the muscle tone along the walls of the digestive tract and promotes the health of the nervous system, skin, hair, eyes, mouth, and liver. It also improves the body’s ability to withstand stress and is often called the “anti-stress” vitamin.

Some of the early symptoms of Thiamin B1 deficiency includes lethargy, loss of memory, loss of sleep or appetite, indigestion or constipation, and calf muscle tenderness. If left untreated these initial symptoms might lead to a more severe form of thiamin deficiency, known as Beriberi. This condition is characterized by nerve, heart, and brain abnormalities.

Vitamin B1 helps in many important bodily functions and its benefits include the following--

Sugar is the principal source of energy in our body where it is oxidized to form a usable form of energy due to the presence of vitamin B1. It is part of a complex enzyme system called the pyruvate dehydrogenase system, which helps in the oxidation of sugar. Vitamin B1 is required for the functioning of this enzyme system, which releases energy for a variety of normal functions in the body.

Vitamin B1 helps in the proper development of myelin sheaths around nerves. A deficiency of Vitamin B1 might result in the degeneration of these coverings, which can result in nerve death and damage.

This vitamin helps in the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is used to relay messages between the nerves and muscles and to ensure proper cardiac function. Vitamin B1 deficiency can therefore result in irregular cardiac functions. People suffering from congestive heart failure, when given vitamin B1 intravenously for seven days, showed considerable improvements in their echocardiograms, which proves that vitamin B1 can prevent heart disease.

When used along with other essential nutrients, Vitamin B1 can prevent the occurrence of cataracts.

Vitamin B1 works as a powerful antioxidant, which helps you protect your body from the signs of aging like wrinkles, age spots, and other age-related conditions that regularly affect the organ systems. This vitamin also helps in the secretion of hydrochloric acid, which is essential for the complete digestion of food particles.

Vitamin B1 is slows down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. It plays an important role in the production of red blood cells, which in turn keeps people healthy, active, and energized. Vitamin B1 can fend off the deficiencies caused by cirrhosis, infections, hyperthyroidism, and the other effects of alcoholism. This vitamin can also significantly mental alertness.

Sesame seeds control morbid obesity.

Lecithin found in sesame is beneficial for the brain and also for the optic nerves.

Sesamol, a compound found in sesame seeds protects the DNA from radiation damage.

Sesame seeds are rich in fiber, which is known to pave way for a healthy digestive system, a healthy colon, and to prevent constipation.

Magnesium in sesame seeds prevent asthma by and other respiratory disorders by preventing airway spasms.

Copper in sesame seeds reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Additionally, this mineral helps provide strength to blood vessels, bones, and joints.

Sesame seeds are good for-

Reducing stress

Promoting bone health

Strengthening hair

Lowering blood pressure and reduces artery plaque

Preventing cancer

Preventing premature ageing

Preventing insomnia in babies where oil is used for massage

Iron deficiency anemia

Promoting healthy skin

Helps prevent headaches and migraines

Preventing diabetes

Lowering bad cholesterol LDL and raising good cholesterol HDL in the blood (highest amount of phytosterols)

Boosting oral health: preventing cavities, removing dental plaque

Detoxifying the body

Anti-fungal

Reduces PMS symptoms during the luteal phase (the second half) of the menstrual cycle

Reduces depression and anxiety

Intestinal parasites

Lactation disorders

Severity of hangovers after an alcohol session.

It has lot of iron which is recommended for people who have anemia or weakness, black sesame contains more iron than white sesame. It contains amino acids, essential for the proper functioning of the central nervous system.

Sesame oil is NOT prone to rancidity. It is stable with long shelf life. Sesame seed oil is rich in Omega 6 fatty acids

The sesame seeds have folic acid, which is good for pregnant mothers. Folic acid is essential in the proper DNA synthesis in growing foetuses .

It help prevent the bone loss that can occur as a result of rheumatoid arthritis.

Sesame is beneficial for the teeth and strengthens them. Take a teaspoon of sesame and chew it slowly.

Sesame oil removed dandruff. Massage the scalp with sesame oil for 30 minutes and cover the head with a hot towel (soaked in hot water and squeezed). Repeat this for five minutes. Dandruff is removed within few days.

In Kerala we have "Ellunda" with evening tea. It is good for children who wet their beds frequently.

Ingredients needed to prepare Ellunda

1/2 kilo Sesame Seeds / Ellu

200 grams Jaggery

1 tsp cardamom seeds powdered

2 tbsps water

How to prepare Sesame / Ellu for the Ellunda

Take a thick bottomed fry pan.

Add cleaned sesame seeds and roast them till they start to burst. Remove and keep aside.

How to prepare Jaggery syrup?

Take a sauce pan, add pieces of jaggery with 2 tbsps of water.

Stir till the jaggery melts and starts boiling.

Once it forms a syrup remove from fire.

The consistency of the syrup should be a soft ball one, that is while the jaggery is boiling, put in a drop or two in a glass of water.

The melted jaggery should shape like a ball when you shape it with your fingers.

This soft ball consistency will be the right one for preparing the sesame balls / Ellunda.

How to prepare Ellunda?

Mix in the Sesame seeds to the boiling jaggery.

Remove the sesame seeds and jaggery from the flame and let cool.

When it is cool enough to shape it into balls, apply a little ghee on to your palms and then shape them in to round balls.

Add sesame oil and turmeric powder in milk and heat it slightly, apply this paste on the face everyday regularly. This makes the skin smooth and soft and also removes pimples.

In case of arthritis, add ginger juice in sesame oil and boil till ginger juice burns out completely. Sieve the remaining oil and store it in a bottle. Massage the painful area with this oil.

In case of psoriasis and boils on scalp take sesame oil and add neem leaves juice, cook it on low flame. When the rasa burns out and the oil remains, sieve it and store it. Apply this oil where you are affected.

Store the dew drops found on the white sesame flowers. Pour two to three drops of these drops in the eye. This cures eye inflammation and itching .

In ayurvedic practices, oil pulling is a daily method of detox . You basically swish your mouth with one table spoon sesame oil ( for 10 minutes ) and allow it to pull out the toxic waste in your body. Oil pulling with sesame oil has many health benefits including:

Releasing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites from the body

Reducing heavy metals in the blood stream

Improving the health of receding gum tissue.

Whitening teeth

Encouraging the blood and lymphatic systems to cleanse by stimulating the production of saliva

Make sure you spit out the oil . Rinse the mouth with warm water and spit that out too.

A Sesame seed sweet concoction was compulsory for me in my childhood. About twenty herbs went into that, which made it good for the brain.

Upon ripening, sesame fruit pods split, releasing the seeds with a pop. This is the phrase "Open Sesame" ( iftah ya simsim ) in the historic fable of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves in One Thousand and One Nights. The splitting of the pod releases the treasure of sesame seeds. Simsim was the NE African word for Sesame.

Virgin Coconut oil and cold pressed Sesame oil are used for lymph node Ayurvedic massage. Hindu families since time immemorial massage their babies with cold pressed Sesame oil or virgin coconut oil before bath and leave them under sunlight for few minutes allowing the body to absorb vitamin D and nourish the skin cells naturally.

The oil penetrates into the skin quickly. There is NO danger from UV rays of sun as Sesame oil provides protection as it has natural sunscreen properties. Used on baby skin, particularly in the area covered by a diaper, Sesame seed oil will protect the tender skin against rash caused by the acidity of body wastes.

The presence of vitamin E and zinc in this oil helps in augmenting the elasticity of the skin; repairs damaged skin cells and promote the production of collagen.

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YOGA AND AYURVEDIC MASSAGE FOR DRAINING LYMPH NODES VADAKAYIL

Sesamin and Phytate, in Sesame, is known to inhibit the development of different types of cancer cells, including:

Colon Cancer

Leukemia

Prostate Cancer

Lung Cancer

Multiple Myeloma

Pancreatic Cancer

Certain strong antibiotics used in treatment of several bacterial infections, can cause severe kidney problems, and Sesame seed protects the kidney.

In Ayurveda Nasya or nasal cleansing is done as part of Panchakarma therapy. Sesame oils infused with medicinal herbs is administered through the nostrils. This aids in removing the toxins from the body, alleviate stress, sinusitis, allergies and headaches.

Used as a douche mixed with warm water, Sesame oil controls vaginal yeast Infections.

Now, you get the drift why Sesame seed is called the sweat drop of Lord Vishnu?

Grace and peace !

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