Sesame oil: an elixir for the body

Food

Published on 06/08/2025

Organic sesame oil has been used since ancient times in Africa and Asia for its numerous benefits. Today, sesame is grown in many countries and its oil remains highly valued. Here's why sesame oil is a true asset for the body.

What is sesame oil?
Composition of sesame oil
How to choose good sesame oil
Cooking with sesame oil
Benefits of sesame oil
Why consume sesame vegetable oil
Precautions for use

What is sesame oil?

Sesame—symbolizing fertility in China and purification in India—is the source of an oil with unsuspected virtues. The sesame seed comes from the eponymous plant, believed to originate in ancient Mesopotamia over 3,500 years ago. It was one of the first oilseed plants used to extract oil. Sesame oil is widely used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.

Composition of sesame oil

As an oilseed product, sesame oil is rich in fatty acids:

Monounsaturated fatty acids: 39–42% oleic acid
Polyunsaturated fatty acids: 39–41% linoleic acid
Saturated fatty acids:
- 8–10% palmitic acid
- 4–5% stearic acid

It also contains antioxidants (vitamin E, sesamin, lecithin), minerals, and fiber.

How to choose your sesame oil

The properties of sesame oil vary according to cultivation methods (country, sunlight exposure, organic farming, fertilization). However, the extraction method is most critical:

Toasted version—stronger taste and darker colour, but potential formation of toxic compounds. Use sparingly.
Extra-virgin, cold-pressed version—lighter taste and color, free from harmful heat-induced compounds. Recommended for regular use.

Since sesame oil is high in omega‑6, it shouldn’t be overused. Balance your intake by combining it with omega‑3 rich oils (rapeseed, flax, hemp) and olive oil.

Cooking with sesame oil

Sesame oil enhances many recipes with its subtle Asian flavor. Due to its high polyunsaturated fat content, it oxidizes under heat—so it's best used cold, for salads or as a finishing oil. You can drizzle it at the end on hot dishes to preserve its delicate taste. Avoid high-heat cooking like grilling or frying.

Store sesame oil protected from light, heat, and air—preferably refrigerated—for up to 18 months.

Benefits of sesame oil

Sesame oil offers remarkable benefits for both internal health and external beauty care.

Skin benefits

Sesame oil is revitalizing and regenerating—perfect for dry or irritated skin. It brightens the complexion and is suitable for infants with skin irritations around the diaper area or skin folds. Rich in antioxidants, it helps prevent early aging, supports dermatological conditions (eczema, psoriasis, sunburns, stretch marks), and promotes tissue healing.

Use alone or mix with other oils like argan or sweet almond for enhanced effects.

Hair benefits

As a hair mask, sesame oil deeply nourishes, repairs, and hydrates dry, dull, or damaged hair. It helps with climate-induced hair damage and coloring, supports microcirculation to reduce hair loss, and combats dandruff and lice. Apply to lengths and ends, cover with a warm towel for 30 minutes, then rinse and air-dry.

Oral and dental health

Used for centuries in Indian dentistry, sesame oil supports oral hygiene through oil pulling. Swish one tablespoon in the mouth for 5 to 20 minutes—do not swallow. It helps clean teeth, reduces gingivitis and plaque, thanks to its antibacterial properties.