The Health Benefits of Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is one among the lesser-known vegetable oils. Extracted from sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) which are predominantly found in Africa, sesame oil has recently been acknowledged as the healthiest alternative to other vegetable oils.
The health benefits of sesame oil stretch to hair, skin, bones, heart and teeth among others. Using sesame oil helps in checking heart diseases, fighting depression, enhancing dental health, improving digestion and prevention of cancer. You can replace your anti-coagulants or blood-thinning medication for sesame oil as it lowers blood pressure and thins the blood. (Check with your doctor nevertheless).
In addition to being used in Asian, Chinese, Japanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, sesame oil has the following health benefits too:
Heart care: Sesame oil has polyunsaturated fats which keeps cholesterol levels low and the cardiovascular system balanced. Eating foods cooked in sesame oil can protect you from heart attacks and strokes.
Bone care: Minerals imperative for bone growth like calcium, zinc and copper are found in sesame oil. Age-related bone issues like osteoporosis can be kept in check by including appropriate amounts of sesame oil in your diet.
Depression: Tyrosin is an amino acid that floods our system with mood boosters like enzymes and hormones. Sesame oil has relatively high quantities of Tyrosine and consumption of it can help keep depression at bay.
Dental health: A procedure called ‘oil pulling’, done with sesame oil, ensures whiter teeth, stronger gums and low levels of plaque. The strong anti-bacterial elements in the oil are a boon to dental health.
Inflammation: Since sesame oil contains high levels of copper, which is an anti-inflammatory agent, application of the oil can reduce swelling in joints. It helps combat the discomfort caused by conditions like arthritis and gout.
Cancer: Organic compounds like phytate, calcium and magnesium that are present in sesame oil are responsible for lowering the chances of developing cancer like colorectal cancer and colon cancer.
Above all, sesame oil infuses a zest to your life. It has substantial amounts of copper which ensures that the required amount of blood flows to all your organs and tissues. Thus, your energy levels stay high and consequently, your mood is cheerful. So, let sesame oil occupy a space on your kitchen counter and you can begin your journey to a healthier you.