Sesame Oil: A Timeless and Versatile Ingredient 

Sesame oil, derived from the seeds of the Sesamum indicum plant, is a flavorful and aromatic oil widely used in culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic applications. A cherished staple in Asian, Middle Eastern, and African kitchens, sesame oil brings a warm, nutty flavor to dishes, all while offering a host of health benefits that make it as wholesome as it is delicious.

Nutritional Composition

A 100-gram serving of sesame oil provides 884 calories and is a source of vitamin K, supplying 13% of the Daily Value. The oil's fat composition consists mainly of monounsaturated fats (oleic acid, 40%) and polyunsaturated fats (linoleic acid, 42%), with a smaller proportion of saturated fats like palmitic acid (9%).

Rich in antioxidants, sesame oil contains tocopherols, sesamol, and lignans, contributing to its oxidative stability. These compounds, alongside other minor constituents such as squalene and sterols, provide the oil with unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of sesamol, in particular, enhances its thermal and oxidative stability, making it more resistant to rancidity compared to other oils.

Extraction and Types

Sesame oil is conventionally extracted by mechanical pressing of seeds, with two primary types:

1. Raw Sesame Oil: Extracted from unroasted seeds, it is used for cooking and retains a mild flavor.

2. Toasted Sesame Oil: Made from roasted seeds, it has a distinctive nutty aroma and is often used as a flavor enhancer in dressings and stir-fried dishes.

The conditions of roasting significantly influence the oil's chemical composition. For instance, roasting at 180°C for 30 minutes increases sesamol, squalene, and tocopherol content, enhancing antioxidant properties. These changes also improve the oil's oxidation stability, a key factor in its shelf life and usability.

Source: HerZindagi 

Culinary Uses

Sesame oil is a versatile ingredient, used for:

• Cooking and frying (although toasted sesame oil may taste burnt when used for frying).

• Enhancing the flavor of snacks, salads, and sauces.

• Stir-frying and light sautéing in Asian dishes.

Health Benefits

Beyond its culinary appeal, sesame oil is prized for its therapeutic properties. It contains sesamin and sesamolin, two unique lignans that offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, contributing to the oil’s stability and health-promoting qualities. These compounds, alongside oleic acid and linoleic acid, support heart health, improve skin hydration, and promote cellular health. Sesame oil is also believed to provide anti-aging, antihypertensive, and anticancer properties while aiding alcohol metabolism in the liver. Its rich blend of nutrients makes it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

The oil’s polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic and oleic acids, play critical roles in maintaining cellular health and reducing inflammation. Sesame oil has been used for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Today, South Asian countries are the leading producers. Despite its benefits, sesame oil is costlier than many other vegetable oils, limiting its widespread production and consumption.

Source: Pharmacy 180 

Storage and Stability

Sesame oil is considered a stable natural oil due to the presence of antioxidants such as sesamol, tocopherols, and lignans. Proper storage is essential to prevent nutrient loss through oxidation and rancidity. Refrigeration and storage in amber or opaque bottles minimize exposure to light and heat, preserving its quality.

Chemical Properties and Refinement

Sesame oil’s chemical properties vary based on the method of extraction. Traditional methods, such as cold pressing, produce virgin or refined oils with varying levels of fatty acids and impurities. Roasting the seeds before extraction produces darker oils with enhanced phenolic content.

The oil contains key compounds like oleic acid, linoleic acid, and sesamin. These constituents exhibit synergistic effects, contributing to the oil’s health benefits and stability. Additionally, the unsaponifiable matter in roasted sesame oil, rich in squalene and sterols, serves as a natural antioxidant.

Source: TheSpruceEats 

Source: Oh Ching Hing 

Conclusion

While sesame oil is packed with benefits, it’s important to keep an eye on potential contaminants like heavy metals, especially in imported seeds. Refining helps reduce these impurities, but choosing high-quality seeds is crucial for safety. Unrefined oils, with their extra nutrients and antioxidants, remain a favorite for those who value natural goodness.

Loved for its rich flavor, nourishing qualities, and health perks, sesame oil isn’t just an ingredient—it’s a timeless kitchen companion that brings warmth, wellness, and a little extra joy to meals around the world.

Reference:

1. Wikipedia.en.(n.d) “Sesame Oil”

2. NIH.(gov). “Sesame Oil-PubChem”

3. ScienceDirect.(2016). “Sesame Oil”

4. Wiley Online Library.(2021) “The chemical composition and heavy metal content of sesame oil.”