Sesame Seeds

Ingredient Library

Sesame Seeds

Discover why sesame seeds are naturally rich in healthy fats, minerals and antioxidant plant compounds, making them one of the world's most nutrient-rich seeds.

Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) are among the oldest cultivated oilseeds in the world and have been enjoyed for thousands of years. Despite their small size, they naturally provide healthy unsaturated fats, plant protein, dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals and a remarkable variety of beneficial plant compounds.

Today, sesame seeds are valued in nutritional supplements because they naturally contain lignans, healthy fats and antioxidants that have made them an increasingly researched whole-food ingredient for brain, heart and inflammatory health.

The Basics

Understanding Sesame Seeds

What are Sesame Seeds?

Sesame seeds are the edible seeds of the Sesamum indicum plant. They are harvested from seed pods that split open when mature and have long been used in foods and traditional nutrition throughout Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Naturally Rich in Nutrients

Sesame seeds naturally provide healthy unsaturated fats, plant protein, dietary fibre, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and vitamin E. They also contain a variety of antioxidant plant compounds that contribute to their exceptional nutritional profile.

Lignans & Antioxidants

Sesame seeds are particularly rich in sesamin and sesamolin, two naturally occurring lignans that are found almost exclusively in sesame. Together with vitamin E and other antioxidant compounds, these nutrients have made sesame one of the most researched edible seeds for supporting overall health and wellbeing.

Key Benefits

Why It’s Used

Brain Function

Supports normal cognitive function, memory and mental performance.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

Heart Health

Supports normal cardiovascular health and circulation.

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are sesame seeds?

Sesame seeds are the edible seeds of the Sesamum indicum plant. They have been consumed for thousands of years and are naturally rich in healthy fats, minerals and antioxidant plant compounds.

What nutrients are naturally found in sesame seeds?

Sesame seeds naturally provide healthy unsaturated fats, plant protein, dietary fibre, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamin E and a variety of antioxidant plant compounds.

What are sesamin and sesamolin?

Sesamin and sesamolin are naturally occurring lignans found primarily in sesame seeds. These unique plant compounds have become some of the most widely researched nutrients associated with sesame and contribute to its impressive antioxidant profile.

Why are sesame seeds associated with brain health?

Sesame seeds naturally provide healthy fats, vitamin E, magnesium and unique lignans such as sesamin. Together, these nutrients have made sesame a popular whole-food ingredient in nutritional formulations designed to support memory, cognitive function and healthy ageing.

Are sesame seeds a common allergen?

Yes. Sesame is recognised as a major food allergen in many countries, including the UK, EU and USA. Individuals with a sesame allergy should avoid sesame seeds and products containing sesame-derived ingredients.