Is Sesame Oil Good For The Body?

Sesame seed oil is made from sesame seeds. The oils and seeds are typically used in Asian dishes and cuisine. Sesame seed and its oils have a nutty aroma and semi-sweet flavor. The oil is also used for dressings and marinade. Sesame seed oil offers a variety of health benefits on top of making an excellent condiment and cooking oil.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants help rid your body of free-radicals that can damage cells and cause cancer. Sesame seed oil is a source of vitamin E, which is considered an antioxidant and can help lower your cholesterol levels. Sesame seed oil also contains vitamin K. According to MedlinePlus, vitamin K helps your body by making proteins for healthy bones and tissues. It also helps making proteins for blood clotting.

Omega-Fatty Acids

According to Karolyn A. Gazella, author of "Plant Oils," sesame oil contains omega fatty acids. Omega fatty acids cannot be made by your body and thus need to be eaten through external sources. Omega-fatty acids help reduce inflammation and can reduce your risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. They are also essential for brain health and can promote growth and development.

Minerals

According to David Grotto, author of "101 Foods That Can Save Your Life," sesame seed oil also contains minerals like magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, and calcium. Magnesium aids vascular and respiratory health. Calcium promotes can help prevent cancer of the colon and osteoporosis. Copper can help aid the relief of rheumatoid arthritis and zinc promotes a healthy appetite and bone health.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be fatal if left untreated. Reduced blood pressure due to hypertension can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. Sesame seed oil can help you if you suffer from hypertension. According to the "Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine," sesame seed oil was found to decrease blood pressure and reduce overall cell damage due to peroxidation. Sesame seed oil also increased the antioxidant status in patients diagnosed with hypertension.