Sunday 30 October 2011

Sesamum indicum: Gingelly lowers blood cholesterol


By Syed Akbar

Sesamum indicum or gingelly is one of the oldest herbs known to man.
In fact, man started cultivating this herb almost 4500 years ago.
Sesamum has been associated with a number of civilisations including
the Egyptian, Middle Eastern, and Indus Valley. The medicinal
properties of Sesamum have been exploited to their fullest in almost
all systems of medicine. It is believed that the plant had its origin
in Africa and then spread to various parts of the world, particularly
the Middle East, China, and Indian sub-continent.
Sesamum is known to induce abortion if consumed in large quantities.
It's better that pregnant women avoid using Sesamum in large
quantities. Sesamum seed and leaves are used in medicinal
preparations. Seeds can be used raw, roasted or in the form of oil
extracted from them. Leaves are grounded to obtain paste and used for
external applications.
The medicinal properties of Sesamum are many. But it is valued for its
cholesterol lowering property. Other medicinal uses are treatment of
piles, skin troubles including burns and wounds, loose motions,
dandruff, low haemoglobin content in the blood (anaemia), rheumatoid
arthritis and tooth decay. It also promotes hair growth and helps in
keeping the hair black for a longer period. It can be used as a
general health tonic.
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Home Remedies
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*If you are bothered by dried ear was, you can get relief by pouring
two or three drops of pure Sesamum oil into the ears. The wax gets
softened and it can be removed easily.

*Anaemia or low haemoglobin levels in the blood can be over come by
regularly taking Sesamum seeds with a pinch of jaggery. Pregnant women
should avoid Sesamum and jaggery as a precautionary measure.

*Since it has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, chewing a
tablespoon of Sesamum seeds will help in keeping the stomach and
digestive tract free of harmful organism, and keeps the skin glowing.

*Since it is rich in vitamin E, Sesamum oil if gently massaged on the
head helps in promotion of hair growth. It also fights dandruff. Take
only a few drops of oil and massage on the scalp. Crushed leaves of
Sesamum can also be applied.

*Take Sesamum seeds, ground them into power, take a teaspoon of this
powder, mix it with a little quantity of honey and consume it twice a
day to keep the body in good health.

*Decoction obtained from the leaves of Sesamum can be massaged on the
head to prevent premature greying of hair.

*A few drop of lime juice mixed with a few drops of Sesamum oil can be
applied as natural ointment for relief from burns, and to beat dry skin.

*Make Sesamum seed paste and mix it with butter. Consume it twice a day
for relief from painful piles.

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