29 Amazing Benefits Of Sesame Seeds For Skin And Health

Protect your heart, stomach, and lungs by adding these seeds to your diet!

Reviewed by Ryan Fernando, Certified Performance Nutrition Expert
Written by Tanya Choudhary, B.Desgn, ISSA Certified Specialist In Fitness & Nutrition
Edited by Ravi Teja Tadimalla, BSc, Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition and Health
Fact-checked by Moksha Gandhi, BPharm, Certified Health & Wellness Coach  • 

Sesame seeds, available in black and white varieties, add a nutty and crunchy flavor and texture to your meals. The many sesame seed benefits help improve your skin, hair, and overall health.

They are commonly added to many Asian and Middle Eastern dishes and are known to increase longevity (1). With their mildly nutty taste, they not only make your meals more flavorsome but also enrich them with many important vitamins and minerals. There is no doubt these seeds are replete with beneficial properties.

You can use these powerful seeds as oil, paste, powder, or in a roasted form or even make them into desserts or ground and blend into gravies. Continue reading to know more about these tiny yet powerful seeds.

protip_icon Know Your Ingredient: Sesame seeds

What Is It?
It is a tiny, oil-rich seed growing in pods on the Sesamum indicum plant.

What Are Its Benefits?
It contains various vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, iron, and magnesium, which are vital for improved neural connection, blood flow, and bone health.

Who Can Use It?
It can be consumed by most people as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

How Often?
You may consume one tablespoon of raw or roasted sesame seeds every day.

Caution
Excessive amounts of sesame seeds can lead to digestive issues or allergic reactions.

What Are Sesame Seeds?

Close up of black, white and roasted sesame seeds on wooden spoons.
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  • Sesame seeds are probably one of the first oil seeds known to mankind.
  • Sesame plant is a flowering plant belonging to the Pedaliaceae family. These seeds have the highest oil content among all seeds and a delicate, nutty flavor that becomes more pronounced when they are roasted under low temperature for a few minutes.
  • These seeds can be consumed in the raw or dried form, or even as roasted snacks. They are used as an ingredient in several cuisines.
  • Dry roasted sesame seeds are ground with olive into a thin, light brown colored paste, known as ‘Tahini’, which is a popular Middle Eastern dip. In Europe, they are commonly used in the manufacture of margarine.
  • There are several varieties of sesame seeds depending on the type of cultivar such as white, black and brown seeds.
  • White sesame seeds have higher iron content than the black ones and are mostly used as ingredients in food or in the form of oil.
  • Black sesame seeds are more flavorful and have a stronger aroma than white or brown sesame seeds and are preferably used in medicines. They contain 60% more calcium than the white ones.
  • White sesame seeds are hulled, whereas the black and brown ones retain their hulls.
protip_icon Did You Know?
Archaeological evidence suggests that sesame was domesticated in the Indian subcontinent 5500 years ago. Researchers found remains of charred sesame dating back to 3500-3050 BCE.

Health Benefits Of Sesame Seeds

So, how are sesame seeds good for you? In addition to their culinary uses, these seeds possess nutritive, preventive, and curative properties, which render them usable in traditional medicines. Sesame seed oil is a rich source of phytonutrients such as omega-6 fatty acids, flavonoid phenolic antioxidants, vitamins and dietary fiber. These seeds, thus, offer a variety of benefits. The health benefits of sesame seeds include the following:

1. High Protein Vegetarian Diet

Sesame seeds are a good source of dietary protein, with high-quality amino acids making up 20% of the seed. Thus, they are perfect to form part of a high-protein vegetarian diet 1). Just sprinkle them over your salads, veggies, and noodles.

2. Prevent Diabetes

The benefits of sesame are numerous. Sesame seeds contain magnesium and other nutrients that have been shown to combat diabetes. The usage of sesame seed oil as the sole edible oil has been been found to be effective in lowering the blood pressure and plasma glucose in hypersensitive diabetics (2).

3. Cure Anemia

Sesame seeds, particularly the black ones, are rich in iron. Hence, they are highly recommended for those suffering from anemia and weakness(3).

4. Cardiovascular Health

  • Sesame seed oil prevents atherosclerotic lesionsi  XThickening of the arteries with fatty streaks due to plaque buildup in the inner linings of the artery walls. and hence, is beneficial for the heart health.
  • They contain an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound called sesamol that also exhibits anti-atherogenici  X A substance that reduces chronic inflammation and repairs the vessel walls to prevent atherogenesis (formation of plaques in arteries). properties, thus improving the cardiovascular health.
  • Sesame seeds are high in the monounsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, which helps in lowering the bad cholesterol and increasing the good cholesterol in the body. This prevents the risk of coronary artery disease and strokes (4).

5. Anti-Cancer Properties

Sesame seeds contain magnesium which has anti-cancer properties. They also contain an anti-cancer compound called phytate. Sesame seeds have proven to be effective in reducing the risk of colorectal tumors, thus preventing colorectal cancer (5). The sesamin in sesame seeds also may show anti-cancer action. This could be attributed to sesamin’s anti-proliferativei  XA substance that prevents or suppresses sufficient cell growth into the surrounding tissue, especially harmful malignant cells. , anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatici  XA substance that prevents the spread of cancer cells or any disease from one part to another in the body. , anti-angiogenici  X A substance that prevents new blood vessels from forming to block tumorous growths in the body. , and pro-autophagocytic properties (6).

6. Digestive Health

Sesame seeds support a healthy digestive system and colon as they are rich in fiber. This high fiber content helps in smooth functioning of the intestine, thus facilitating waste disposal, digestion, and relieving constipation (7).

7. Relief From Rheumatoid Arthritis

Sesame seeds contain copper, a mineral that is vital for antioxidant enzyme systems, thus reducing the pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Besides, this mineral provides strength to the blood vessels, bones, and joints.

8. Respiratory Health

Woman recovered from asthma
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Magnesium contained in sesame seeds may reduce the risk of asthma and other respiratory disorders by preventing airway spasms. Studies also link pulmonary disorders with magnesium deficiency (8).

protip_icon Trivia
Ancient Egyptian healers commonly used sesame to soothe asthma.

9. Protection From Radiation Damage

Sesamol, found in sesame seeds and sesame oil, has been found to prevent the DNA from being damaged by radiation. It also prevents damage to the intestines and the spleen.

10. Bone Health

Sesame seeds contain zinc that boosts the bone mineral density and the bone health. The deficiency of this mineral can cause osteoporosisi  XA condition that affects new bone creation and fails to remove old bones, accompanied by a loss of bone density and increase in fractures. in the hip and spine area. Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium, a trace mineral that is vital to bone health (9).

11. Oral Health

Sesame seeds and sesame seed oil help in boosting the oral health by removing dental plaque and whitening your teeth. Oil pulling, i.e. swishing your sesame seed oil in your mouth, can reduce the amount of streptococcus mutans in both the teeth and the mouth saliva and boost the overall health (10).

12. Nullify The Effects Of Alcohol

Sesame seeds help the liver to decompose the harmful effects of alcohol as well as other substances that generate poisoning in the body.

13. Treatment Of Anxiety

  • Sesame seeds contain several nutrients that may have stress-relieving properties.
  • Minerals like magnesium and calcium act as an antispasmodic by regulating the muscle function i.e. contraction and relaxation.
  • Thiamin (vitamin B1) has calming properties that aid in proper nerve functioning. The deficiency of this vitamin can lead to muscle spasms, moodiness, and depression.
  • Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is involved in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that reduces pain and regulates the sleep pattern and mood. The inadequacy of serotonin production and transmission in the brain can result in anxiety and depression.

Yachna, a blogger, shared her personal experience with sesame oil in combating numerous ailments. She recounts in her blog post, “The use of sesame oil is what helped me begin my healing journey. A decade ago I suffered from terrible anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, nervous energy, etc (i).” She continues sharing, “Sesame oil will help calm the nerves and relax you. It will mellow you out. If you suffer from anxiety disorders, massaging your scalp will help tremendously.”

14. Lower Cholesterol

  • Black sesame seeds benefit in lowering the cholesterol levels. They contain two substances called sesamin and sesamolin, which belong to a group of fibers called lignans. Lignans, especially when taken along with stanol esters (chemical compounds known to reduce bad cholesterol levels) have a cholesterol lowering effect (11).
  • Black sesame seeds also contain plant compounds called phytosterols which have a structure similar to that of cholesterol. Their consumption not only decreases the blood cholesterol levels, but also reduces the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
  • Sesame seeds have the highest phytosterol content of all seeds and nuts.

15. Eye Health

  • According to traditional Chinese medicine, there is a strong relationship between the internal organs and external parts such as the eyes.
  • The liver stores blood and since a certain branch of the liver channel goes to the eyes, the liver can also send blood to the eyes to support their functioning.
  • Black sesame seeds are beneficial for the liver as they increase the liver blood, thereby nourishing the eyes. Their therapeutic effects help in treating blurred vision and tired, dry eyes.

16. Nourish The Organs

Black sesame seeds have been found to increase energy, nourish the brain and slow down aging. The regular consumption of black sesame seeds can help reduce the symptoms of backache, painful or tight and stiff joints, and weakness in the joints.

17. Blood Pressure Reduction

Nowadays hypertension is a common health problem among women and men from various age groups. Studies have indicated that using this oil can help reduce hypertension. The magnesium in this oil helps reduce blood pressure.

The extensive range of minerals and vitamins in this oil helps boost your immunity. Its antioxidants and these nutrients help the body fight cancer causing elements in a better way and improve your immune system. The phytates present in these seeds are known for their cancer prevention properties too.

18. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Using black sesame seed oil, either topically or by consumption, can help reduce ailments and conditions caused by inflammation. The high amount of copper in this oil helps the users cope better with inflammation caused conditions affecting the body joints.

Sesame seeds
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Skin Benefits Of Sesame Seeds

Sesame is rich in powerful antioxidants and possesses antibacterial and antiviral properties. It offers several benefits that may help improve your skin health by bringing blood and nourishment. The oil extracted from sesame seeds is rich in omega-6, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamins B and E which have been used as products of beautification. Let us learn how sesame seeds are beneficial for the skin.

19. Healing Properties

Sesame seed oil is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and has excellent healing properties. Its antibacterial properties help to get rid of skin pathogens like staphylococcus and streptococcus as well as common skin fungi such as athlete’s foot fungus (12). Sesame seed oil mixed with warm water can control vaginal yeast infections.

20. Treatment Of Sunburns

Woman applying sesame seed oil on face to treat suntans.
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When used after the exposure to the wind or the sun, sesame seed oil can treat suntans. It prevents the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun from damaging your skin, thus preventing the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation. Some reports suggest that sesame oil may contain UV filters (13).

21. Skin Detoxifier

Some believe the antioxidants in sesame seed oil may help in detoxifying your skin. When applied on the skin, the molecules of this oil attract oil-soluble toxins that can be washed away with hot water and soap.

  • Mix half a cup of sesame seed oil with half a cup of apple cider vinegar and a quarter cup of water.
  • This should be applied every night after splashing your face with water.

You should include sesame seed oil in your beauty regime.

22. Suitable For Babies

Baby skin, particularly the area covered with diapers, often gets rashes due to the acidity of body wastes. Anecdotal evidence suggests that sesame seed oil may protect their tender skin against these rashes. Applying it to the nose and ears provides protection against common skin pathogens. It also combats dryness of skin.

23. Glowing Skin

  • Sesame seed oil can provide you with glowing skin. It maintains skin flexibility by keeping it soft and supple, and heals the areas of mild cuts, scrapes and abrasions.
  • It helps tighten the facial skin, particularly the area around the nose, and controls the enlargement of pores.
  • It also controls eruptions and neutralizes the poisons which develop on the surface and in the pores.
  • You can also try a facial for glowing skin.
  • Massage your face thoroughly with sesame seed oil and scrub your face with rice or besan powder before washing off with warm water.
  • Later, splash your face with cold water to close the pores.
protip_icon Trivia
Ancient Ayurvedic practices hail sesame oil as a vata pacifying or vata balancing ingredient. Vata dosha may often lead to skin dryness and dullness.

24. Treatment Of Cracked Heels

If you have cracked heels or sore feet, you can apply sesame seed oil every night before going to bed and cover your feet with cotton socks. This should be done for a couple of days to get soft and supple feet.

Hair Benefits Of Sesame Seeds

Woman applying sesame oil to her hair.
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Sesame seeds are packed with vitamins, nutrients and minerals that are vital for the maintenance of a healthy scalp and hair. Just like the skin, sesame seed oil has beneficial effects on your scalp, thus combating various scalp problems. The benefits of sesame seeds for the scalp are as follows.

25. Encourage Hair Growth

Sesame seeds contain essential fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 which may promote hair growth. Sesame seed oil stimulates hair growth by nourishing, conditioning, and promoting a healthy scalp. The regular massage with warm sesame oil penetrates your scalp, thus increasing the blood circulation. It is comparable to a liquid vitamin that feeds your hair roots and shafts. However, more research is warranted in this regard.

26. Prevention Of Scalp Problems

Sesame seeds are rich in replenishing vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are vital for a healthy scalp. Massaging your scalp with sesame seed oil combats dryness, flakiness and clogged pores that cause hair thinning and hair loss. Besides, its antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help in treating scalp infections and dandruff and soothing an irritated scalp.

27. Natural Sunscreen

Sesame seed oil acts as a natural sunscreen for your hair by protecting it from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays and pollution.

28. Deep Conditioning

Sesame seed oil acts as a deep conditioning treatment for dry, damaged hair, split ends or chemically treated hair. It restores the lost moisture and strengthens the hair shaft, enabling dull and brittle hair to regain its shine, bounce, elasticity and softness.

29. Hair Darkening Qualities

Sesame seed oil is known for its hair darkening qualities that make it effective for people suffering from premature graying of hair. It can be used with carrier oils like olive or almond oil to reap the maximum benefits.

Sesame Seeds Nutrition Facts

All varieties of sesame seeds are extremely nutritious. They have a high oil content of 40% to 60%. They are a rich source of minerals like copper and manganese. They also contain magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, selenium, vitamin B1 and zinc, and are rich in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fats. The nutritional value of sesame seeds is explained below.

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum), whole, dried,
Nutritional value per 100 g.
(Source: USDA National Nutrient data base)
PrincipleNutrient ValuePercentage of RDA
Energy573 Kcal29%
Carbohydrates23.45 g18%
Protein17.73 g32%
Total Fat49.67 g166%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Dietary Fiber11.8 g31%
Vitamins
Folates97 µg25%
Niacin4.515 mg28%
Pantothenic acid0.050 mg1%
Pyridoxine0.790 mg61%
Riboflavin0.247 mg19%
Thiamin0.791 mg66%
Vitamin A9 IU
Vitamin C00%
Vitamin E0.25 mg2%
Electrolytes
Sodium11 mg1%
Potassium468 mg10%
Minerals
Calcium975 mg98%
Copper4.082 mg453%
Iron14.55 mg182%
Magnesium351 mg88%
Manganese2.460 mg107%
Phosphorus629 mg90%
Selenium34.4 µg62.5%
Zinc7.75 mg70%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-ß5 µg
Crypto-xanthin-ß0 µg
Lutein-zeaxanthin0 µg
  • Calories in sesame seeds: An ounce of raw, dried sesame seeds contains around 163 calories and 14.11 grams of fats, including 1.96 grams saturated fats. Roasted sesame seeds, on the other hand, contain 160 calories and 13.61 grams of fats, including 1.09 grams saturated fats. Both raw and roasted sesame seeds are cholesterol free.
  • Protein: Sesame seeds are a great vegetarian source of protein. An ounce of raw, dry sesame seeds contain 5.03 grams of protein, whereas the roasted ones contain 4.81 grams. However, one cannot solely rely on sesame seeds as a source of protein as the actual amount of protein derived is far less.
  • Vitamins: Both raw and roasted sesame seeds are devoid of vitamins A, C, D, E or K. An ounce of raw or roasted sesame seeds contains 0.22 mg of thiamin, which is 19% of the daily value and 0.07 mg of riboflavin, which is equivalent to 6% of the daily value for adults.
  • Minerals: An ounce of dried sesame seeds provides 291 mg of calcium, 4.113 mg of iron and 9.77 mg selenium, satisfying 29.1% of the daily value of calcium and 18 % of the daily value of selenium for adults. It also satisfies 23% and more than 50% of the recommended daily value of iron for women and men respectively. Roasted sesame seeds have a comparatively lower mineral content than their raw counterparts.

The benefits of sesame seeds are plenty but it also has some downsides. Read on to learn more about the risks associated with consuming sesame seeds.

Side Effects Of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds contain high amounts of unsaturated fatty acids, so eating too many of them can lead to weight gain. It can also cause stomach problems, disrupt the body’s hormonal balance, and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can lead to blood thinning and make the process of blood clotting more difficult. It contains antinutrients such as oxalic acid and phytic acid that can lower blood pressure as well as increase the risk of kidney stones (14). Moreover, it may cause allergic reactions in children, including swelling, rashes, sneezing, itching, asthma, and in severe cases, anaphylactic shock (15).

Infographic: Top Health Benefits Of Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds have been used in traditional medicine for their medicinal properties. Their rich antioxidant, phytonutrient, and flavonoid content may help treat many ailments. While they offer a variety of benefits, there are some that truly stand out.
Check out the infographic below to learn about the top health benefits of sesame seeds.

top health benefits of sesame seeds (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

Sesame seeds with their high oil content and nutty flavor are widely used in many cuisines. You can consume them raw, dried, roasted, or in gravies, to reap the many benefits of sesame seeds. Rich in phenolic antioxidant compounds, healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and important minerals, sesame seeds are not only good for your cardiovascular, respiratory, oral, bone, and digestive health, but also help prevent the risks of diabetes and cancer to some extent. With their anti-inflammatory properties, sesame seeds benefit your skin and hair health as well. Whether you use them as they are or as oil, sesame seeds are one of the most beneficial superfoods that you can include in your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sesame good for kidney stones?

Eva De Angelis, Dietitian Nutritionist, says, “Sesame seeds are high in oxalate, a natural compound present in plants. Yet, the issue is that a high intake of oxalate is not recommended for people with kidney disease or kidney stones. Since oxalate can bind with calcium, eating too much of it can increase the risk of kidney stone formation.”

Does sesame increase testosterone?

Eva says, “Some studies suggest that sesame seeds could increase testosterone production. Sesame seeds are a good source of magnesium, and the evidence shows that increasing magnesium intake can increase free testosterone levels.”

Is black sesame good for periods?

Eva opines, “Sesame seeds can be your best friend if you have menstrual cramps and pain. These seeds are rich in lignins, compounds that are known for their role in regulating the body’s excessive hormone production. This means that sesame seeds can help alleviate period pain. Plus, some evidence also suggests that they can help you maintain regular blood flow.”

How much sesame seeds should I eat daily?

You can consume about 1-2 tablespoons of sesame seeds every day.

Do sesame seeds increase weight?

No. Scientific studies have noted that sesame seeds contain sesaminol diglucoside, a compound that protects against high fat-induced weight gain (16). Including sesame diets in your diet may aid in weight management.

Who should not eat sesame seeds?

People with gout and Wilson’s disease should avoid sesame seeds. Sesame seeds contain oxalates, which might aggravate gout symptoms. The seeds are also rich in copper, which is why Wilson’s disease patients must abstain from them.

Do sesame seeds have a warming effect on the body?

Yes. Sesame seeds contain sesamol, a compound that creates energy and dissipates heat (17).

Key Takeaways

  • Sesame seeds are one of the earliest-known and most nutritious edible seeds available to humankind, which makes it a great addition to one’s diet.
  • Excellent source of omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, with nutritious, preventive, and curative benefits.
  • Sesame seed oil has healing properties as well—it may help treat sunburns, detoxify skin, and is also considered safe for babies.
  • Sesame oil can encourage hair growth, and its antifungal and antibacterial properties prevent scalp problems.
sesame seeds benefits

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Discover the health benefits of sesame seeds. Watch this video to know the reasons why these tasty seeds are good for your overall health.

Personal Experience: Source

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Value addition in sesame: A perspective on bioactive components for enhancing utility and profitability
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4127822/
  2. Type 1 Diabetes Cardiovascular Complications and Sesame (芝麻 Zhī Má)
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4032840/
  3. How can I get enough iron?
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279618/
  4. Effect of sesame seed on lipid profile and redox status in hyperlipidemic patients
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22263599/
  5. Whole sesame seed is as rich a source of mammalian lignan precursors as whole flaxseed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16201847/
  6. A comprehensive review on the anti-cancer properties and mechanisms of action of sesamin a lignan in sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum)
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29032105/
  7. Dietary fibre in foods: a review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3614039/
  8. Role of magnesium in regulation of lung function
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8509592/
  9. Value addition in sesame: A perspective on bioactive components for enhancing utility and profitability
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4127822/
  10. Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene – A review
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC5198813/
  11. Effect of sesamin on serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels in LDL receptor-deficient mice
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17039285/
  12. Synergistic Antimicrobial Activities of Phytoestrogens in Crude Extracts of Two Sesame Species Against Some Common Pathogenic Microorganisms
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC2816499/
  13. In vitro sun protection factor determination of herbal oils used in cosmetics
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC3140123/
  14. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): A Comprehensive Review of Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Composition, Health Benefits, Development of Food, and Industrial Applications
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9573514/
  15. Sesame seed allergy in children
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15623244/
  16. Sesaminol diglucoside, a water-soluble lignan from sesame seeds induces brown fat thermogenesis in mice
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30415772/
  17. Sesamol Increases Ucp1 Expression in White Adipose Tissues and Stimulates Energy Expenditure in High-Fat Diet-Fed Obese Mice
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7284577/
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