February 2025
2 min read
Open Sesame!
Sesame, a rich source of protein, contains active compounds such as sesamol and sesamolin, which are beneficial for human metabolism and can only be obtained from plants. These compounds found in sesame oil play a significant role in antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and antihypertensive effects due to their unique chemical and physiological properties.
Effects on Diabetes Patients
A 2010 study (1) conducted on 60 individuals aimed to measure the effects of sesame oil in diabetes treatment, yielding intriguing results. The participants were selected among non-smoking and non-drinking patients who were using the same diabetes medication. They underwent a two-month trial in which their good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels were recorded before, during, and after the process. The participants were divided into three groups: (i) those who continued using only the medication, (ii) those who used only sesame oil, and (iii) those who used both the medication and sesame oil. By the end of the study, significant improvements in blood values were observed in the groups that used only sesame oil and those who combined it with the medication.
Anti-Aging Effects
Exposure to sunlight (UV rays) is one of the primary environmental factors causing skin aging, known as photo-aging. Photo-aging mainly results from the harmful effects of UV radiation on cellular DNA, proteins, and lipids in the skin, leading to wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and pigmentation changes. The search for and development of natural compounds to mitigate UV-induced skin damage is a highly researched topic in dermatology. Due to its rich nutritional content, sesame oil holds great promise for supporting skin health. Its antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress in skin cells, which is a key factor in aging and skin disorders (2). Sesame oil, rich in omega-6 fatty acids, supports skin barrier function, hydration, and healing (3).
Disclaimer: The information we share about botanical products is derived from scientific studies examining their biochemical effects and is not intended as medical advice for the treatment of any condition. The findings of these studies do not provide guidance on how these botanical products should be used. Please remember that the most reliable way to safeguard your health is to consult health professionals who follow in the footsteps of Hippocrates.
References
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Sankar, D., Ali, A., Sambandam, G., & Rao, R. (2011). Sesame oil exhibits synergistic effect with anti-diabetic medication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical Nutrition, 30(3), 351–358.
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Johnson W., Jr., Bergfeld W.F., Belsito D.V., Hill R.A., Klaassen C.D., Liebler D.C., Marks J.G., Jr., Shank R.C., Slaga T.J., Snyder P.W., et al. Amended safety assessment of Sesamum indicum (sesame) seed oil, hydrogenated sesame seed oil, Sesamum indicum (sesame) oil unsaponifiables, and sodium sesameseedate. Int. J. Toxicol. 2011;30:40s–53s
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Zhang M., Wang O., Cai S., Zhao L., Zhao L. Composition, functional properties, health benefits and applications of oilseed proteins: A systematic review. Food Res. Int. 2023;171:113061.