Sesame seeds are highly nutritive. Although some people are aware of sesame seeds, some people have probably never heard of them. Sesame seeds are an excellent source of copper, zinc, manganese, calcium, Vitamin B1 and dietary fiber. Sesame seeds contain two compounds, sesamin and sesamolin that are able to prevent high blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. There are three different varieties of sesame seeds: the black, white and red. The black version has the best medicinal properties. Below are some of the health benefits of sesame seeds.
1 Sesame seeds relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
Sesame seeds are a good source of copper. Copper helps in reducing some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as pain and swelling.
2 Sesame seeds help relieve some respiratory disorders
The presence of magnesium in sesame seeds help improve the health of our respiratory system. Sesame seeds are able to relieve asthma by preventing airway spasms. Sesame seeds are also able to relieve chronic and acute bronchitis by acting as an expectorant.
- Mix one teaspoon of powdered sesame seeds with one table spoon of honey and consume.
3 Lowering high blood pressure
Sesame seeds are rich in magnesium and studies have supported magnesium’s usefulness in lowering high blood pressure. If one does not have high blood pressure, then the chances of having stroke, heart attack, and heart failure are low.
4 Preventing anaemia
Black sesame seeds contain iron which is able to prevent anaemia that results from deficiency of iron.
- Soak some black sesame seeds in warm water for about 6 hours.
- Grind the seeds until it becomes a paste. This paste can be added to a cup of milk and sweetened with honey.
5 Lowers cholesterol
Sesame seeds contain a compound called phytosterols that is similar in structure to cholesterol found in animals. Phytosterols are also found in soybean, corn and pumpkin seeds. When phytosterol is consumed by man, it is believed to bring down the levels of cholesterol in blood.
6 Strong and healthy bones
Sesame seeds contain zinc and calcium which are essential minerals for strong and healthy bones. A study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that those who had a low intake of zinc were more vulnerable to osteoporosis at the hip and spine. Calcium also helps in preventing bone loss that can occur as a result of ageing and menopause.
7 Sesame seeds can help relieve menstrual cramps
The calcium found in sesame seeds help reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps. A teaspoon of powdered sesame seeds should be taken with a cup of hot water.
8 Migraines
Sesame seeds can help prevent migraine headaches. 1 teaspoon of powdered sesame seeds should be taken with a cup of hot water to relieve migraine in those who suffer from them.
9 Prevention of colon cancer
Calcium has been shown to prevent colon cells from chemicals that cause colon cancer.
10 Causing abortion
Centuries ago in the African culture, sesame seeds were used traditionally to cause abortion when there was a need for it.
Sources:
H.K.Bakhru “Foods that heal” The natural way to good health.
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