Til or sesame seeds are considered the oldest oilseed crop in the world and have been cultivated for more than 3,500 years. However, the immense benefits of the tiny seeds have often been overlooked. The powerful seeds are known to improve blood circulation, detoxify the body, and eliminate depression and chronic stress.

The sesame plant is native to India and is extremely resilient. It grows in places where many other crops fail, which is why it was so heavily relied on throughout the ages. Many of the health benefits are derived from the oils, which are found in higher concentration in sesame seeds than in any other oilseed crop in the world.

Why are these minuscule seeds so important? Well, they are packed with some important nutrients that are essential for the body. Following are some of the health benefits of sesame seeds –

Prevents Cancer:

Apart from all the essential minerals, including the powerful anti-carcinogenic effects of magnesium, the seeds of sesame also contain phytate which is a rare cancer-preventing compound that functions as an antioxidant and reduces the effects of free radicals that are the dangerous byproducts of cellular metabolism, connected to many forms of cancer.

Managing diabetes:

Magnesium present in sesame seeds has been found to be very effective in reducing the chances of diabetes and managing the symptoms in patients having already developed the condition. Sesame seed oil regulates the insulin and glucose levels in the body, thereby helping to manage the symptoms of diabetes.

Boost bone health:

Sesame seeds contain considerable levels of essential minerals like zinc, calcium, and phosphorous which gives a major boost to bone health. These minerals play an integral part in creating new bone matter and strengthening or repairing bones that may be weakened by injury or the onset of debilitating bone conditions like osteoporosis.

Improve digestion:

It is interesting to know that these little seeds are packed with a significant amount of fibre. Fibre is important as it bulks up bowel movements and helps them move through the digestive tract thus providing relief from conditions such as constipation. It protects the health of your colon and reduces the chances of gastrointestinal diseases.

Protects from Radiation:

Sesamol is an organic compound found in sesame seeds which have been associated with protecting DNA from the harmful effects of radiation. By protecting the DNA from mutation due to radiation, these seeds can boost strength and reduce the chances of contracting other forms of cancer due to cellular mutation.

Improves oral health:

One of the notable positive effects of sesame seeds is its strong antibacterial and astringent effect on all aspects of oral health. It is also closely associated with reducing the presence of the Streptococcus bacteria, a common bacteria that can wreak havoc on your oral cavities and other parts of your body.