Friday, August 7, 2009

Ayurvedic Healing: The Benefits of Sesame Seed Oil



Conventionally, sesame seed oil is used for high heat cooking, stir frying and in Asian cuisine, specifically. In Ayurveda, it is referred to as "The Queen of Oils" and has been used internally and topically for thousands of years. It is mentioned in the Vedas as "the golden serum" for humans. Sesame oil is naturally antibacterial for common skin pathogens, such as staphylococcus and streptococcus. It is antiviral and anti-inflammatory. Research proves that sesame oil is a potent antioxidant. In the tissues beneath the skin, this oil will neutralize oxygen radicals which, is beneficial for cancer patients receiving radiation treatment. It penetrates into the skin quickly and enters the blood stream through the capillaries. Molecules of sesame oil maintain good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL). It also acts as a cell growth regulator and slows down cell growth and replication. In both the small intestine and the colon, some cells are nourished by fats instead of sugar. The presence of sesame seed oil can provide those cells with essential nourishment.

In an experiment at the Maharishi International College in Iowa, students rinsed their mouths out with a sesame oil based rinse, resulting in an 85% reduction in bacteria which causes gingivitis.

As nose drops, if sniffed back into the sinuses, can cure chronic sinusitis. As a throat gargle, it kills strep and other common cold bacteria. It helps sufferers of psoriasis and dry skin ailments. It has been successfully used in the hair of children to kill lice infestations. It is also a natural UV protector.

Used after exposure to wind or sun, it will calm any burns incurred. Sesame oil nourishes and feeds the scalp to control dry scalp dandruff and kills any bacteria associated with it. On the skin, oil soluble toxins are attracted to sesame seed oil molecules, which can then be washed away with hot water and a clean mild soap. Internally, the oil molecules attract oil soluble toxins and carry them into the blood stream and then out of the body as waste. When prepared with warm water, it can also be used as a "womb washout" helping to control yeast infections in us ladies.

Sesame seed oil helps joints to remain agile. When using as a massage oil, stroke the long limbs up and down. Use circular motions over all the joints to stimulate the natural energy released from the oil into the joints. It keeps the skin supple and soft. It heals and protects areas of mild scrapes, cuts, and abrasions. It helps to tighten facial skin, particularly around the nose, controlling the usual enlargement of pores as the skin matures.

Folks in their teenage years dealing with acne have been told to avoid all oils at all costs. Heavy oils and toxic creams are not the best for facial skin. Sesame oil however, is the one oil that is actually excellent for young skin. It helps control eruptions and neutralizes the poisons which develop both on the surface and in the pores. Used on baby skin, particularly on their little bottoms, which is usually covered by a diaper, sesame seed oil will protect their tender skin against rashes caused by the acidity of bodily waste. In the nose and ears, it protects against common skin pathogens. For children going to school, who will be in the presence of other children with colds and sniffles, sesame oil swabbed in the nose can protect against air borne viruses and bacteria.

As always, we give you a mouth full. Its always good to know that the things we grew up knowing conventionally, have value in a different way, in the present. There is definitely a difference between the food grade oils and the oils that are used topically so, please read labels and try your best to always used cold-pressed oils in all of your preparations. Blessed movements throughout your weekend...Give thanks and Be Well....

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