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In ancient Greece, sesame was used as an ingredient in both food and medicines, as mentioned by Galen and Hippophanes. Aristophanes, Herodotus, and Athenian authors refer to sesame being used in the production of sweets, often combined with honey.
In Greece, whole sesame is used in the preparation of pasteli and as a coating for pastries, while ground sesame is used to make tahini, the main ingredient in halva production.
Composition of sesame
Sesame Oil: Sesame is an oily seed, containing approximately 55% sesame oil. It is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, accounting for up to 80%, particularly oleic and linoleic acids. An important benefit is the absence of trans-unsaturated fatty acids, which can pose health risks.
Carbohydrates: Sesame contains about 20% carbohydrates, primarily in the form of dietary fiber.
Proteins: Sesame contains between 16-32% protein.
Vitamins: Sesame is a good source of several vitamins, including B1, B2, E, and niacin.
Minerals: Sesame is rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc.
BENEFICIAL PROPERTIES OF SESAME AND ITS PRODUCTS:
Antioxidant activity:
In recent years, the antioxidant activity of certain foods has become a subject of intense scientific and research interest. Epidemiological studies have shown that consuming plant-based foods has a beneficial effect on the human body, helping to protect it from serious diseases. Sesame contains substances with significant antioxidant properties, primarily lignans, sesamin, and sesamolin, as well as vitamin E and gamma-tocopherol. Consumption of sesame may be associated with reduced susceptibility of blood lipoproteins (mainly LDL) to oxidation. LDL oxidation is a key factor in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels These plaques contribute to thrombosis and the development of arteriosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Cytoprotective Effect:
The antioxidant properties of sesamolin and vitamin E help protect the body from the damage caused by free radicals, safeguarding genetic material from destruction.
Cholesterol Reduction:
Sesame and its products can help reduce blood cholesterol levels. Sesame is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which contribute to cholesterol reduction as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, the presence of sesamin inhibits the absorption and synthesis of cholesterol.
Antihypertensive Effect:
Although the antihypertensive properties of sesame have not yet been fully documented, initial studies suggest that it may have a positive effect on blood pressure.
Dietary fiber:
The sesame husk is rich in fiber, which helps in the proper function of the intestines.
Vitamins:
The primary vitamin in sesame is vitamin E, which has powerful antioxidant properties, prevents the formation of cancer cells, and helps prevent cellular degeneration associated with diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Sesame also contains B vitamins, such as B1, B2, and niacin, which play key roles in various metabolic processes and contribute to overall health.
Minerals:
Sesame and its products are excellent sources of essential minerals that support the body’s proper functioning. Specifically, calcium and zinc promote bone health and help protect against osteoporosis, while magnesium can help lower high blood pressure and protect against vascular and respiratory diseases.
Effect on Liver Function:
Sesamin has a positive effect on liver enzyme activity and may help reduce alcohol levels in the blood.
