Extracted from sesame seeds, sesame oil is one of our most valuable vegetable oils. It's very stable, has a long shelf life and it a good source of vitamin E. It's a staple in Asian cuisine and has been used in body massage, skin and hair treatments, food and drug manufacture and is frequently used as a solvent for the delivery of pharmaceuticals, in particular hormone and steroid drugs.

What is Sesame Oil?

Sesame oil is derived from sesame seeds, which is one of the highest oil containing seeds. There are many different varieties of sesame oil that range in flavor and colour because there are numerous varieties of sesame seeds. Interestingly, Japan is the largest importer of sesame seeds, which makes sense because sesame oil is a very common cooking oil used in Japanese dishes.

What is Sesame Oil used for?

While sesame oil is used for cooking and flavoring foods, it actually has a number of health benefits. Sesame oil is beneficial for heart disease, lowering cholesterol and lowering blood pressure. It is also good for diabetics because it helps regulate blood sugars, while also protecting against the long-term damaging effects of having high blood sugars. It's high in antioxidants and protects against aging, cancer and immune system disorders.

In India it's been traditionally swished in the mouth to strengthen teeth and gums, prevent tooth decay, heal bleeding gums and to alleviate dryness and cracked lips. It's used as a hair oil to improve scalp health and strengthen hair and it is sometimes used topically for wound healing. It's also been used in beauty care as a face wash and skin oil, which helps to prevent black heads, clears up pimples and fades dark spots.

How does Sesame Oil work?

Sesame oil's claim to fame is it's high amount of vitamin E. This powerful antioxidant is responsible for lowering cholesterol, blood pressure and protecting against heart disease. Sesame oil also contains other antioxidants like sesame lignans, which in combination with vitamin E protect against fat oxidation. This means, it protects against harmful, free radical type fats. Sesame oil's high antioxidant content is what gives the oil a longer shelf life and contributes to it's stability.

Interestingly, studies have shown that when diabetics, who also have high blood pressure, started cooking with sesame oil, there was a decrease in blood sugar levels, gylcated hemoglobin (HbA1c levels), cholesterol and triglycerides, and an increase in HDL levels (“good cholesterol”).

How do you use it?

Sesame oil is a cooking oil and many recipes call for it. It's bold taste is perfect in stir fries, salads and many Asian dishes. A little sesame oil goes a long way, so be sure to measure it. If you put in too much, you will certainly notice it, but you will miss it if you don't put in enough.

You can also use it to make homemade skin care remedies like face cleanser, skin oil, bath oil and natural sunscreen.