SESAME- Best in Phytonutrients

Sesame seeds. One of the oldest spices in the known world. They have been grown in the tropical region of the world since prehistoric times. As early as 1500 BC, the Egyptians were already using them as medicine and were depicted in their tomb paintings being used in baking bread. Ancient Babylonians produce oil from this seed to make cakes and toiletries. The Romans include the seed in their diet for energy and strength. They are thought to have originated in India and was later on introduced throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It reached North America in the late 17th century via Africa. At present day, Myanmar is said to be the leading sesame producer in the world.

Sesame plant is a member of the Pedaliaceae plant family, cultivated since antiquity for its seeds. Its scientific name is sesamum indicum. A hardy annual plant that can thrive in the worst condition and can survive with just the moisture from the atmosphere. It can grow 3 to 6 feet in height and exhibits flowers in lovely white, pink and lilac colors. The fruits are capsule-like, containing numerous pearly white seeds which are tear shaped and flat. This tiny seed is crunchy with as nutty, buttery taste and a sweet aroma. It is prized as an oilseed.

They may be little, but they are a true powerhouse of nutritional value and health benefits. A power seed that is loaded with essential minerals like… Calcium to build up your bone and relieve migraine. Magnesium to lower your blood pressure, fight diabetes and enhances respiratory health. Zinc, which helps your body to repair damaged tissues by producing collagen. Iron to help you maintain a balance diet and improve your immune system and hemoglobin. Manganese to assist your body in maintaining metabolic process and reproductive function.

This superfood is an excellent source of plant based protein to build up your muscle mass and tissues. It has no cholesterol and gluten-free. As compared to peanuts, sesame seed has more fiber, calcium and less saturated fat. Its vitamin E content neutralizes unstable molecules that can damage your cell, and may even prevent Alzheimer’s disease. It has the highest amount of phytosterols among the nuts and seeds, making them effective in lowering down bad cholesterol level in the body. Sesame seed contains sesamol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that can boost your heart health by preventing atherosclerotic lesions. Its essential oil holds a good amount of tryptophan that can effectively reduce your hypertension and ease up stress. It has monounsaturated fat to help lower your blood sugar level. The seed is also rich in dietary fiber to help you regularize your bowel movement and prevent digestive problems.

Avoid sesame seeds or its essential oil if you are allergic to nuts.

Sesame fun fact: 75% of the total sesame seed produced by Mexico goes to McDonald’s hamburger bun production alone.

Eat organic. Stay fit.

Photo from Success Secrets' website.

There’s A Thyme For Everything

Lets’ go back in thyme. In the ancient Greece, thyme was considered as a symbol of bravery and sacrifice. They use thyme incense in their temples too. 

Its medicinal properties are also found in the ancient writings of Diosorides. The Romans use thyme to flavor their cheese and liquors. And in the Middle Ages, thymes are given to knights for their bravery on the battlefield. They were even placed under pillow with the belief that the scent can ward off depression.

Thyme belongs to the mint family of low growing, perennial shrubs called Thymus vulgaris. They are very easy to grow on the hills and mounds. It is native to the Mediterranean and grow in Spain, Portugal, France and most of southern Europe. Thyme leaves are tiny, no more than a quarter inch long and has a grayish-green color. It is slightly minty flavor with a slightly dry aroma. It’s a very powerful herb and must therefore be used with care.

Thyme is packed with all the essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, selenium, magnesium and manganese. It is also an abundant source of vitamins A, B-complex, C, K, and E including folic acid.

With that being said, this superfood definitely has tons of health and medicinal benefits.

The aqueous extract that thyme holds can reduce high blood pressure. It has anti-inflammatory properties to treat the body of chronic inflammation, which can lead to heart disease.

Thyme contains the highest level of antioxidants than all other herb like thymol, a very strong antioxidant that protects the brain cell from premature aging. It also increases the level of omega-3 fatty acids, including healthy fats in the brain. It can reduce the risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease as it stores thymonin, luteolin and naringein.

Loads of essential nutrients found in thyme helps in proper bone development and the production of energy.

The oil extracted from thyme can be used to treat Candida albicans also known as thrush, a common fungus that causes yeast infections in the body.

It can also give relief to symptoms of bronchitis like cough, fever and flu. It acts as an antispasmodic to give intestinal cramping relief and can bring about a normal bacterial growth in the gut.

As for cooking, thyme leaves are usually dried and are either chopped or grounded when used as condiments. It’s a wonderful addition to egg and vegetable dishes and a great seasoning for stocks and stews.

What are the side effects of thyme? Well, generally, it is safe when consumed in food, even for pregnant and nursing women. But when taking it as a medicine for an extended time may cause upset stomach.

That’s all the thyme we have…. Oh, if you’re having omelet, try adding some fresh thyme, you’ll be surprised. Bon appetite!

Photo from Flickr