Sesame
Sesamum indicum
B Limited clinical evidenceThe seed behind tahini and simit. It contains healthy fats, protein and lignans; small studies saw modest falls in cholesterol and blood pressure.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Sesame (Sesamum indicum) contains protein, unsaturated fatty acids and lignans such as sesamin. Whole (unhulled) sesame is rich in calcium, but hulled sesame and tahini contain little. Small clinical studies reported that regular sesame or sesame oil modestly lowered LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. Sesame can cause severe allergy.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Supported by small-scale human clinical studies, though sample size and study quality are limited.
How do we rate evidence levels? →A nourishing seed with protein, unsaturated fat, lignans and minerals. [1]
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Supported by small-scale human clinical studies, though sample size and study quality are limited.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Small studies reported regular intake may contribute to modest falls in LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. [1]
How is it used?
Food
Sprinkle on bread, simit and salads; use as tahini with grape molasses or in dishes.
Amount: 1–2 tablespoons daily
[1]Safety & interactions
- Sesame allergy can be as serious as anaphylaxis; sesame is a declared allergen on labels.
- Tahini and sesame are high in calories; eat in moderation.
- For young children, tahini is preferred over whole seeds.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Blood pressure and diabetes medicines | Large amounts may further lower blood pressure and blood sugar. [1] | Minor |
Side effects
- Allergic reaction (can be severe)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
"Open sesame" comes from ripe sesame pods, which burst open at the slightest touch. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is sesame a calcium source?
Unhulled sesame is; hulled sesame and tahini contain much less calcium.
Does tahini raise cholesterol?
No, it contains unsaturated fat; small studies saw a modest fall in LDL.
Can sesame oil be used on skin?
It is used as a moisturiser; not if you are allergic.
Sources
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Sesame (Sesamum indicum). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/sesame/
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