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Health Benefits of Black Sesame Seeds

Black sesame seeds are small, flat seeds, dark in color, that are used in cooking or for their medicinal properties. The use of sesame seeds and sesame oil dates back thousands of years. An Assyrian tale speaks of gods who drank sesame wine before creating the earth. Black sesame seeds are high in many minerals including calcium and iron and are also used to promote regular bowel movements. They have a sweet and nutty flavor.

  1. Description

    • Black sesame seeds are often used in Asian cooking and are quite high in nutritional value. The seeds are harvested and dried during early fall and then used for culinary or medicinal purposes. Sesame seeds were one of the first substances used to make oil. They were also used to make one of the first condiments.

    Minerals

    • Black sesame seeds are high in calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, phosphorus. These minerals help to support healthy bones, muscles, blood, and nervous system. Copper strengthens blood vessels, joints, and bones, and is helpful in relieving arthritis. Magnesium supports vascular and respiratory health. It also contains zinc and calcium, which also improve bone health.

    Uses

    • Black sesame seeds are used to improve the health of the bowels. In Chinese medicine they are used to promote health to the kidney and liver, and to treat constipation and promote regular bowel movements. For those prone to or suffering from loose stools or diarrhea, black sesame seeds may make the problem worse. It is therefore best to consult your doctor before taking black sesame seeds as a supplement.

    Recovery

    • Black sesame seeds have been used to help patients recover from serious illnesses and fevers. The seeds replenish the body of essential minerals lost during illness. As well as assisting in recovery, black sesame seeds may be used to help prevent illness by reducing cholesterol. The seeds contain phytosterol, which is a compound similar to cholesterol but actually reduces it in the body.

    Forms

    • Black sesame seeds are available in their natural whole form from grocery stores and health food stores. They are also available in powdered form, and at health food stores you may be able to find black sesame seeds in capsule form. For medicinal purposes 9 to 30 grams of sesame seeds can be taken daily, but remember to see your doctor before using any herbal capsules or supplements.

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