Doctors warn that, with the increasing incidence of heart diseases, especially among young people, it is extremely necessary to pay more attention to our diet.
Therefore, a certain type of oil, considered a true elixir for the heart, should not be missing from the diet. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, sesame oil can be beneficial for the heart, joints, skin, and many other aspects.
The nutritional qualities of the sesame plant have inspired some to call its oil the Queen of oilseeds. It belongs to the Pedaliaceae family, a group of plants harvested for their edible seeds, and its scientific name is Sesamum indicum.
It has strong anti-inflammatory properties
Sesame oil is obtained from raw sesame seeds, pressed, and has culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. It contains sesamol and sesaminol, two antioxidants that can have powerful effects on your health.
Antioxidants are substances that help reduce cellular damage caused by free radicals. The accumulation of free radicals in your cells can lead to inflammation and diseases. Chronic inflammation can be harmful and can lead to diseases, which is why it is important to limit it as much as possible.
Sesame oil can have similar effects when applied topically. A study conducted on rats showed that it can reduce cell damage by inhibiting compounds such as xanthine oxidase and nitric oxide, which produce free radicals.
Traditional Taiwanese medicine has long used sesame oil for its anti-inflammatory properties, using it to treat joint inflammation, back pain, and abrasions. For example, studies in test tubes have found that sesame oil reduces inflammatory markers, such as nitric oxide production.
Reduces cholesterol levels
Well-established research shows that a diet rich in unsaturated fats is beneficial for heart health. Sesame oil contains 82% unsaturated fatty acids. In particular, it is rich in omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that is essential for your diet and plays an important role in preventing heart diseases.
Studies conducted on rats show that sesame oil can help prevent heart diseases and even slow the development of plaque in arteries. It can actually reduce cholesterol levels when used instead of oils rich in saturated fats.
Additionally, sesame oil has been shown to support healthy blood sugar regulation, which is particularly important for people with diabetes.
