There are two types of sesame: black and white. From a nutritional science perspective, both black and white sesame seeds are nutrient-rich foods. If a distinction must be made, black sesame seeds have a slightly higher nutritional value than white ones. Therefore, black sesame seeds are more commonly used for nourishing and health benefits, while white sesame seeds, with their attractive color, are more often used as a garnish in daily meals.
Health Benefits
Black sesame seeds are sweet and neutral in nature, and they function to nourish the liver and kidneys, and to enrich the blood and moisten dryness. In addition to the well-known effect of darkening hair, black sesame seeds also have excellent antioxidant properties. Due to their rich oils and vitamin E, they can moisturize the skin, nourish the blood, and relieve constipation, making them an excellent product for maintaining a youthful appearance. They also contain substances like lecithin, choline, and inositol that prevent weight gain, so eating sesame seeds will not make you fat. When dieting for weight loss, consuming sesame seeds can also help improve rough skin. Furthermore, black sesame seeds are beneficial for the brain and marrow, making them extremely helpful for those experiencing dizziness, blurred vision, and memory loss due to insufficient liver and kidney energy.
How to Eat
The sesame products we usually eat are mostly sesame paste and sesame oil. Eating whole sesame seeds is not the best way to absorb their nutrients because sesame seeds have a slightly hard outer membrane. Only by grinding them can the nutrients be absorbed. Therefore, it is best to grind sesame seeds before eating them.
Storage Tips
Purchased sesame seeds should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If the sesame seeds are roasted and dried, they will be easier to store.