Description:
Sesame oil is derived from a plant species called Sesamum indicum. For ages Sesame has been used for
millennia in Chinese and Indian systems of medicine. Though often recommended as a laxative, the herb was
used as early as the 4th century A.D. as a Chinese folk remedy for toothaches and gum disease.
In modern times, sesame has been embraced by Western herbalists for a variety of therapeutic purposes. The oil
is also used in cooking and as an ingredient in margarine and salad dressings as well as in certain cosmetics
and skin softening products. Native to Asia and Africa, sesame is primarily cultivated in India, China, Africa, and
Latin America.
Sesame oil is high in polyunsaturated fat. When used in moderation, this type of fat can benefit the heart by
helping the body to eliminate newly made cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association.
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