FEATURES

antioxidant

antiseptic

balancing

deodorant

BENEFITS

antioxidant

antiseptic

cleansing

warms

softens

soothes

conditions skin

nourishes

protects

moisturizes

protects cells from oxidation

repels insects

Especially good for: normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, eczema, psoriasis, after-sun care, insect repellant

USES

herbal infusions

emollient

base oil

Heavier than Grapeseed oil, Sesame oil can be used as a warming oil for the body. Best used in a blend, add in a ratio of 1:9 with other carrier oils. This is a true and whole organic expeller-pressed Sesame oil rich in vitamin E, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. It has a rich golden color, and a bold, nutty flavor. Because of its stable shelf life it is superb in body care products and natural cosmetics. It is also a great base for an insect repellent blend.

ABOUT THE PLANT

Sesamum indicum is a flowering plant also known as benne, is one of the oldest herbs grown specifically for its seeds. Numerous wild relatives occur in Africa and a smaller number in India. It is widely naturalized in tropical regions around the world and is cultivated for its edible seeds, which grow in pods or "buns".

ABOUT THE OIL

The oil-rich seed of sesame contains large amounts of fatty acids, minerals and vitamin E. Sesame Oil is one of several plant emollients that mimic the lipid content of the skin. It helps stabilize and maintain the skin's complex inter-cellular matrix, preventing moisture loss and cell damage and promoting the skin's soft, smooth, healthy appearance. As an ingredient in massage oil it carries soothing, toning, nourishing and moisturizing properties.

Sesame oil contains sesomoline, a natural preservative, which gives it a long shelf life.

Can be extracted from raw seeds, or seeds that have been roasted prior to being pressed. The latter oil is dark and smoky red and is often used in Chinese cooking. The raw oil is light in color and slightly nutty to taste.

The combination of nearly equal percentages of mono-unsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and linoleic acid make the oil comparatively stable, so it does not turn rancid upon contact with air.

The unrefined variety has a strong scent, which is the biggest drawback to using this oil alone as a carrier. good as a base for herb preparations.

OF INTEREST

The Chinese cultivated sesame around 5,000 years ago. Egyptians ground it to produce flour. Roman soldiers mices sesame seeds with honey to give them extra strength for their long arduous military campaigns.

Long used in Ayurvedic medicinal preparations and is said to be rejuvenating.

vitamin Ecalciummagnesiumphosporusproteinlecithin

Sesame oil has a bold, nutty flavor and aroma.

Battaglia, S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy

Keville, K. & Green, M. Aromatherapy A Complete Guide to the Healing Art