Sesame
Sesame, also known as
Sesamum indicum, is native to Africa and is cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. The flowers of the
sesame seed plant are yellow, though they can vary in color with some being blue or purple.
The coveted and tasty seeds from the hardy
Sesame plant were the first recorded seasoning in history! The Assyrians used them as far back as 3,000 B.C. According to Assyrian legend, when the gods met to create the world, they drank wine made from
sesame seeds.
In ancient Egypt,
Sesame seeds were eaten and also pressed for oil. The oil was burned in lamps and used to make ointments and lotions.
Sesame has been eaten and used in India and China for thousands of years, for flavoring food but also for many medicinal actions.
Sesame is now widely grown around the world and is cultivated for its edible seeds, which grow in pods.
Sesame is said to be beneficial for tinnitus (ringing in the ears), blurred vision (due to anemia), and "dry" constipation.
Sesame oil is used as a base for cosmetics as its oil is also good for the skin.
Sesame seeds are highly nutritious and contain 55% oil, comprising mainly unsaturated fats, 26% protein, vitamins B, E, folic acid, and minerals.
"Open sesame," the famous phrase from the Arabian Nights, reflects the distinguishing feature of the sesame seed pod, which opens up when it reaches maturity.
Also available:
Queen Anne's Lace Seeds
Red Clover Seeds
Herb Garden Starter Kit
