Sesame Oil - The Queen of Oil

Sesame Oil, which is made from sesame seeds is a lesser known vegetable oil, but one of the healthiest option amongst the vegetable oi! Not only is sesame oil inexpensive to extract, it is also very versatile where it can be used in Asian cuisines, Japanese cuisines, Middle Eastern cuisines and many more, which explains its uprising popularity in the recent years. Continue reading for more benefits and their cooking recipes!

Health Benefits of Sesame Oil

Hair Health

Sesame oil is said to have hair improving benefits. It retains the natural hair colour and minimises hair loss. In addition, the anti-bacterial effects in sesame oil could eliminate the pathogens or foreign bodies that can potentially attack your scalp and hair.

Circulation and Metabolism

High levels of copper and zinc is required for the body to function at its optimal level. Copper aids in the production of red blood cells. So, having contained a significant amount of copper, sesame oil is able to get the right amount of blood flowing to the organs and tissues. Thus, this ensures a healthier lifestyle for all individuals.

Skin Health

Besides being rich in copper, sesame oil also contains high levels of zinc, which essentially is one of the most important minerals for our skin. Zinc increases the skin’s elasticity and smoothness, hence significantly reduces the appearance of age spots and eliminates bad skin conditions. Ever thought that sesame oil could be used as a sunscreen? By creating a protective layer on skin, sesame oil acts as a sunscreen, protecting the body from foreign substances or toxins that penetrates through our skin.

Prevents Cancer

Another benefit of sesame oil is that it contains an organic compound called phytate, which aids in reducing the development of cancer. Also, sesame oil contains an exceptionally high magnesium level and calcium content, in which these minerals are linked to lowered chances of contracting colorectal cancer (colon cancer).

Heart Health

Sesame oil owns a wide range of polyunsaturated fatty acids which keeps the cardiovascular system strong and cholesterol levels low that reduces risk of contracting atherosclerosis (disease that plagues up your arteries). Hence, by consuming sesame oil, the risk of suffering from heart attack and other heart related diseases will be significantly reduced!

Bone Growth

Minerals such as copper, zinc and calcium are crucial to a body’s bone growth. That is, by maintaining an appropriate level of sesame oil in your diet, it helps to increase the rate of bone growth and development as well as speed up healing! For older folks, sesame oil aids in the slowing down risk of suffering from osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory

Having contained high levels of copper, a natural anti-inflammatory substance, sesame oil can reduce any inflammation and discomfort for conditions such as gout. Besides reducing swelling of joints and strengthens bones and blood vessels, sesame oil aids in keeping your body frame sturdy for many years, without any inflammation!

Oral Health

Not only have studies proven the benefits of sesame oil, dental professionals also highly recommend them! Because of a process known as oil pulling, whereby it involves putting oil in your mouth and then swishing it around before spitting it out. Result of it would be whiter teeth, lower levels of dental plague and protection against streptococcus mutants (significant contributor to tooth decay) that make us very ill. Being anti-bacterial in nature, sesame oil certainly boosts one’s dental health!

Sesame Oil Recipes

Five-Spice Nuts with Soy Sauce and Sesame

Spice things up with this amazing recipe! With the fragrance from the sesame oil and spices, it would add a taste to your conventional nuts! Feel free to try it out with a variety of nuts and treat your guests to this amazing appetizer.

Check out the recipe here: Five-Spice Nuts with Soy Sauce and Sesame

Thai Steak and Noodle Salad

Thinking of preparing a different salad, instead of the usual ones? This dish is right for you. Though the preparation steps can be a little tedious, but the end will be worthwhile. Filled with an array of flavours, the combination of Western style steak mix with Thai sauce will be amazing!

Check out the recipe here: Thai Steak and Noodle Salad

Samantha Ngo

References:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/17951-health-benefits-sesame-oil/

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/sesame-oil.html

http://www.balancemebeautiful.com/benefits-sesame-seed-oil-for-skin/