Black Sesame Plant (Sesamum indicum nigrum)

Amazing Health Benefits of the Black Sesame Plant (Sesamum indicum nigrum)

Black sesame is the oldest sesame plant variety and belongs to the plant family with the botanical name Pedaliaceae and it shares its genus with the more commonly known sesame (Sesamum indicium).

Black Sesame is cultivated in Africa and India, sometimes it grows wildly. The leaves, both dry and fresh are used to cook soups. In Hausa, it is called Karkashi and the soup from the dry leaves is called Gwalgwal or Lieng toa in the Birom dialect of the people of Jos Plateau other English common names, include benniseed, black benniseed, black sesame, and vegetable sesame.

Health benefits of the black sesame leaves

Eye Health: They may be used traditionally to treat eye disorders.
Hair Care: The leaves might be beneficial for maintaining healthy hair.
Respiratory Health: They can be used as a remedy for coughs.
Dental Care: There’s a possibility that they could be used for dental issues.
Pain Relief: They might offer relief from joint pain.
Anti-inflammatory: They could be effective in reducing inflammation and swelling.

Nutrient-Rich: They are a good source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, iron, and zinc
Heart Health: Consuming black sesame seeds may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease.
Antioxidant Properties: The seeds contain antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.
Digestive Health: They are a good source of fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health.
Protein Source: Black sesame seeds provide plant protein, essential for building muscles and hormones

Medicinal benefits of the black sesame seeds

Black sesame seeds are highly regarded for their medicinal benefits, attributed to their rich nutritional profile. Here are some of the key medicinal benefits:

Rich in Nutrients: They are a good source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, iron, and zinc, which are essential for various bodily functions, including bone health and immune system support.
Heart Health: The seeds may help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, which are risk factors for heart disease, due to their healthy fats and plant compounds like lignans and phytosterols.
Antioxidant Properties: Black sesame seeds contain antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.
Digestive Health: They are a good source of fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health.
Protein Source: They provide plant protein, which is essential for building muscles and hormones.

Including black sesame seeds in your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being. However, consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. If you have any specific health conditions or dietary restrictions, consulting with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet is advisable.

The chemical properties of the black sesame plant

The black sesame plant, Sesamum indicum, is known for its rich chemical composition that contributes to its health benefits. Here are some of the key chemical properties:

Fatty Acids: Black sesame seeds are approximately 44 to 60 per cent oil, which includes a healthy balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Lignans: They contain lignans such as sesamin, sesamolin, and sesaminol, which have antioxidant properties and may contribute to cholesterol reduction and liver protection.
Vitamins: The seeds are a good source of thiamin (vitamin B1) and vitamin B6, essential for energy metabolism and brain function.
Minerals: They are especially rich in macro minerals like calcium and magnesium, and trace minerals such as iron, copper, and manganese. These minerals are important for bone health, immune system support, and oxygen circulation throughout the body.
Phytic Acid: Whole sesame seeds contain phytic acid, which is considered an antinutrient because it can bind to minerals and prevent their absorption

How to use black sesame plant as medicine

Here’s how you might use different parts of the plant medicinally:

Seeds: Black sesame seeds are the most commonly used part of the plant for medicinal purposes. They can be consumed directly, added to foods, or used to make oil. They are known for supporting heart health, promoting healthy skin and hair, aiding digestion, and providing relief from constipation.
Oil: Sesame oil, extracted from the seeds, is used in massage therapy and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can be applied topically to nourish the skin and hair, and it’s also used in oil pulling for dental health.
Leaves: While not as commonly used as the seeds, sesame leaves can be used in teas or as a poultice for their anti-inflammatory properties and potential to support respiratory health.
Roots: In some traditional practices, the roots of the sesame plant are used for their purported medicinal properties, although scientific evidence is limited.

Some ways to use the black sesame leaves as food

Black sesame leaves, also known as perilla or sesame leaves, can be used in a variety of dishes to add a unique flavour and nutritional benefits. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your meals:

As a Wrap: Use the leaves as a wrap for rice, meat, or vegetables. This is a common practice in Korean cuisine where the leaves are used similarly to lettuce in wraps.
In Salads: Chop the leaves and add them to salads for a burst of flavour and a nutritional boost.
Stir-Fried: Stir-fry the leaves with garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil for a quick and flavorful side dish.
In Soups: Add whole or chopped leaves to soups to infuse them with a unique aroma and taste.
As a Garnish: Finely chopped black sesame leaves can be used as a garnish on top of rice dishes, noodles, or tofu to enhance the presentation and flavour.

Remember to wash the leaves thoroughly before using them, and if they are too large or tough, you can blanch them briefly in boiling water to soften them before adding them to your dish. Enjoy experimenting with these versatile leaves in your cooking!

The side effect of the black sesame plant (Sesamum indicum nigrum)

Black sesame seeds are generally considered safe for consumption, but like any food, they can cause adverse reactions in some individuals. Here are some potential side effects to be aware of:

Allergic Reactions: Some people may have an allergy to sesame seeds, which can cause symptoms like asthma, runny nose, eye inflammation, and digestive issues.
Anaphylaxis: In rare cases, sesame seeds can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, characterized by chest tightness, hypotension, and wheezing.
Appendix Infection: Excessive consumption of sesame seeds may lead to appendix infection, as the seeds can get stuck in the organ and cause infections.
Colon Cancer Risk: Regular consumption of large amounts of sesame seeds has been associated with an increased risk of colon inflammation, which could potentially lead to colon cancer.
Diverticulitis: Overconsumption can affect the colon and cause diverticulitis, a condition where painful pockets form in the interior walls of the colon.
Weight Gain: Sesame seeds are calorie-dense and high in fat, which could contribute to unwanted weight gain if consumed in large quantities.
Diarrhea: They can promote bowel movements, so they should not be used by individuals experiencing diarrhoea or loose stools.
Skin Rash: If an individual is experiencing skin inflammation, such as rashes, it is best to avoid consuming black sesame seeds until the condition improves.

It’s important to consume black sesame seeds in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or when you are experiencing any adverse reactions.