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Sesamum Indicum

Also known as: Sesame, black sesame, benne, Sesamum indicum

Overview

Sesamum indicum, commonly known as sesame, is an oilseed plant whose seeds and oil are widely used as food and in traditional medicine. It is classified as a botanical dietary supplement, with its seeds and oil being rich in bioactive compounds such as lignans (sesamin, sesamolin), unsaturated fatty acids, and various antioxidants. This ingredient is primarily recognized for its potential to support cardiovascular health, improve glycemic control, and exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Recent research, including multiple randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews/meta-analyses, has provided moderate to high-quality evidence supporting its benefits, particularly in metabolic and cardiovascular health. It is consumed in various forms, including whole seeds, oil, and powdered extracts.

Benefits

Sesamum indicum offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in metabolic and cardiovascular health. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs demonstrated that sesame supplementation significantly improves glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by reducing fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin, and HbA1c. This suggests a strong benefit for individuals managing blood sugar levels. Furthermore, a 2025 GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis highlighted sesame's ability to improve anthropometric measures, blood pressure, and lipid profiles (reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides), as well as inflammatory biomarkers and oxidative stress parameters in humans, especially in diabetic populations. These findings indicate a robust benefit for cardiovascular risk factor management. The inherent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of sesame lignans and oil contribute to these systemic benefits. Emerging evidence from a 2024 RCT also suggests therapeutic efficacy in reducing lower abdominal pain and pelvic tenderness in patients with uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease (uPID), showing comparable results to standard antibiotic treatment for this specific condition.

How it works

The therapeutic effects of Sesamum indicum are primarily attributed to its bioactive compounds, particularly lignans like sesamin and sesamolin. These lignans exert their effects by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, thereby reducing oxidative stress through the scavenging of free radicals. They also modulate enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism, which contributes to improved lipid profiles. The anti-inflammatory actions are mediated by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus reducing systemic inflammation. Improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism are likely achieved through the modulation of insulin signaling pathways. The bioactive compounds are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with their bioavailability potentially enhanced by oil extraction and various seed processing methods.

Side effects

Sesamum indicum supplementation is generally well tolerated and possesses a good safety profile, as observed in numerous clinical trials. Adverse effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. There have been no significant drug interactions or contraindications reported in the reviewed scientific literature. However, it is important to note that allergic reactions to sesame seeds or oil are possible, although they are uncommon in the general population. Individuals with known sesame allergies should avoid its use. Overall, the safety data supports its use as a dietary supplement, but caution is always advised for individuals with pre-existing allergies or sensitivities.

Dosage

Effective dosages of Sesamum indicum vary depending on the specific form and intended purpose, as observed in clinical trials. For general health benefits and in studies focusing on uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease (uPID), approximately 5 grams of sesame seed powder daily has been used. For metabolic studies targeting glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors, doses of sesame oil or lignan extracts have ranged from 30 mg to several grams per day. The duration of supplementation in studies typically ranges from 4 weeks to 3 months. Optimal dosing is condition-dependent, and longer durations may be necessary to observe chronic metabolic effects. Co-administration with dietary fats may enhance the absorption of its fat-soluble bioactive compounds. There are no established upper limits, but adherence to studied dosages is recommended.

FAQs

Is sesame safe for long-term use?

Current evidence supports safety for up to 3 months; longer-term data are limited, but no major safety concerns have emerged from existing research.

Can sesame replace standard medications?

Sesame may serve as a complementary intervention but should not replace prescribed treatments, especially for conditions like diabetes or infections.

How soon can benefits be expected?

Improvements in glycemic control and lipid profiles have been observed within 4–12 weeks in various randomized controlled trials.

Is sesame allergy common?

Sesame allergy exists but is relatively rare compared to other food allergies; caution is advised for individuals with known allergies.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/chemistry/articles/10.3389/fchem.2024.1361980/full – This double-blind RCT compared black sesame powder plus rose oil vaginal application to standard antibiotics in 60 uPID patients. It found comparable clinical cure rates and pain reduction with good safety, suggesting a promising alternative or complementary treatment for uPID.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ptr.7918 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs assessed sesame supplementation in T2D patients. It found statistically significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, insulin, and HbA1c, indicating improved glycemic control, despite some heterogeneity in study designs.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40069782/ – This GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis analyzed RCTs on sesame's effects on cardiovascular risk factors. It demonstrated dose-dependent improvements in lipid profile, blood pressure, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress, highlighting its robust cardiovascular benefits.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40644772/ – This publication is likely a related or follow-up study to the Jafari et al., 2025 meta-analysis, further detailing the rigorous methodology and comprehensive findings regarding sesame's impact on cardiovascular risk factors in human subjects.