Sesame Health Dictionary

Means “oil of (plant or animal name)”; look up the plant or animal name specified for more information. The most common plant-based oils used for medicine include: coconut (coco), castor bean plant (higuereta), sesame (ajonjolí), olive (aceituna) and avocado (aguacate) oils. For certain illnesses (particularly asthma), these oils are taken by the spoonful, sometimes in combination with oils from animal sources such as snake (culebra), turtle (tortuga), shark (tiburón) and cod fish (bacalao). These animal-based oils are reportedly used by some individuals in an asthma remedy called botella de aceites which is typically given to children.... aceite de

Sesame (Sesamum indicum).

Plant Part Used: Seed, seed oil.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The seed oil is traditionally taken orally for asthma, bronchitis, common cold, flu and pneumonia, and the seed emulsion is taken orally for asthma, administered to both children and adults.

Safety: The seed and seed oil are generally regarded as safe for human consumption, and no adverse reactions have been reported in clinical studies.

Contraindications: None identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: None identified in the available literature.

Clinical Data: The following effects of the seed oil or seeds have been investigated in human clinical trials: antidiabetic, dry nasal mucosa treatment, enterolactone precursor, hypocholesterolemic, hypotensive, infant growth stimulus, postmenopausal support, sex hormone binding globulin increase, sleep improvement, thiobarbituric acid reacting substance decrease and Vitamin E status improvement.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): antitumor, antineoplasm, antihypertensive, antioxidant, hypocholesterolemic and improved Vitamin E bioavailability.

* See entry for Ajonjolí in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... ajonjolí

Roxb.

Family: Flacourtiaceae.

Habitat: Kumaon and n the dry forests of Bengal, Bihar, Orissa and South India.

Ayurvedic: Vikankata (related species), Kinkini (provisional classical synonym).

Folk: Kondai, Kondari.

Action: The bark of the plant, triturated in sesame oil, is used as liniment in gout and rheumatism.... flacourtia sepiaria

Butter pomade; a slightly solidified nut butter used externally as an ointment or salve; for example, made from peanuts (maní) or sesame seeds (ajonjolí).... pomada de manteca

Linn.

Synonym: S. orientale Linn.

Family: Pedaliaceae.

Habitat: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Orissa, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.

English: Sesame, Gingelly.

Ayurvedic: Tila, Snehphala.

Unani: Kunjad, Til.

Siddha: Ellu (seed), Nallennai (oil).

Action: Seeds—an important source of protein; also rich in thiamine and niacine. Nourishing, lactagogue, diuretic, laxative, emollient. Powdered seeds—given internally in amenorrhoea and dysmenorrhoea. (Black seeds are preferred in Indian medicine.) Paste is applied to burns, scalds, piles. Leaves—used in affections of kidney and bladder. Bland mucilage is used in infantile diarrhoea, dysentery, catarrh and bladder troubles, acute cystitis and strangury.

Non-saponifiable fraction of the seed oil gave sterols, a lignans, sesamin and a nitrolactone, sesamolin. Sesamin and sesamolin are not found in any other vegetable oil. Sesamin is present in a concentration of 0.5 to 1.0%. The oil from the white seeds from West Bengal and Assam is reported to contain about 2.5% sesamin. Sesamol, a phenolic antioxidant, is present in traces.

The leaves gave a flavonoid, pedalin. Pinoresinol has also been reported from the plant.

The seed contains thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, pantothenic acid, folic acid, biotin, pyridoxine, in- ositol, choline, p-aminobenzoic acid, ascorbic acid, vitamin A, alpha-and beta-tocopherol. Sugars present are glucose, surcose, galactose, planteose, raffinose. Fatty acid in the seed are myristic, palmitic, stearic, arachidic, hexadecenoic, oleic, linoleic and lig- noceric.

Basic aroma compounds of the roasted seeds consisted of mainly dimethyl thiazole and substituted pyrozines.

Dosage: Seed—5-10 g powder. (API, Vol. IV.)... sesamum indicum

A herb, usually mucilaginous, which has a protective and soothing action upon the surface of the body. A demulcent has a similar action but on internal surfaces (mucous membranes), Almond oil, Balm of Gilead, Borage, Chickweed, Comfrey, Elecampane, Fenugreek seeds, Iceland Moss, Irish Moss, Linseed oil, Lungwort, Marshmallow, Mullein, Oatmeal, Peanut oil, Plantain, Sesame Seed oil, Soya oil, Slippery Elm bark, Wheatgerm oil. Used in creams, lotions and poultices. ... emollient

LINOLEIC and linolenic acids.

Essential fats known as Vitamin F and which are necessary for the maintenance and repair of the membrane that encloses a cell.

Important sources: Grape, Sunflower, Evening Primrose, Black Currant and Sesame oils. Fatty acids are prone to attack by free radicals.

See: FREE RADICALS. ... linoleic

Willd.

Synonym: V. calyculata Tul. V. madraspatana var. calyculata (Tul.) King.

Family: Rhamnaceae.

Habitat: Throughout India in hotter parts, usually climbing on trees.

Siddha/Tamil: Pappili.

Folk: Pitti, Raamadhaani, Kevati (var.).

Action: Stem bark—powdered and mixed with sesame oil, externally applied to skin diseases and sprains. Root bark—used for atonic dyspepsia, mild fever and debility. Sap—used for the treatment of deafness.

The stem bark gave friedelin and several anthraquinones. The root contains anthraquinones, ventinones A and B. Major constituents of the root bark are emodin, its glucoside and corresponding analogues, ventiloquino- nes. The fruit, leaves and stem gave lupeol, beta-sitosterol and its gluco- side.... ventilago denticulata

The external use of essential oils from seeds, resins, herbs, barks and spices for relaxant purposes.

Plant essences give plants their scent and were known to the ancient civilisations of Egypt and Greece as the ‘vital force’ or spirit of the plant. They were used for inhalation, rubbing on the skin or as a healthful addition to baths and foot-baths. The art is complementary to phytotherapy, acupuncture and other systems of alternative medicine.

The aromatherapist uses oils individually or in blends of different oils. The natural concentrated oil is usually diluted by adding a vegetable oil before direct application to the skin. A massage oil usually comprises 6 drops essential oil to 10ml (2 teaspoons) carrier oil – Almond, Peanut or other vegetable oil.

The skin is known to be an integral part of the immune system. T-cells are scattered throughout, primarily in the epidermis or outer layer. It has been demonstrated that oils rubbed on the skin are readily absorbed and borne to distant organs in the body via the bloodstream to soothe, relax and heal. Some oils should not be used during pregnancy or lactation.

An oil may be used as a natural perfume. As a bath oil, 5-6 drops of a favourite oil may be added to bathwater. Oils freshen a room; stimulate or relax as desired when added to water on a warm radiator. Oils are never used on the skin undiluted.

The aromatherapist never uses essential oils internally. Other carrier oils may be used: Sesame seed, Sunflower seed, Apricot kernel and Wheatgerm. Usual methods of applying essential oils: massage, inhalation and baths. When adding oils to baths water should not be too hot which causes oils to evaporate.

Remedies absorbed into the body via the skin avoid metabolism by the liver as when taken by mouth.

When the therapy was used in a geriatric ward in Oxford drug expenditure on laxatives and night sedatives fell. It was reported to have given profoundly deaf patients, many of whom had multiple sensory deficits, tranquillity. The results of a randomised trial in patients on an intensive care unit showed significantly greater psychological improvement (as demonstrated with anxiety and mood rating scales) in those given aromatherapy (1 per cent Lavender and Grapeseed oil) over those massaged with Grapeseed oil only or those prescribed rest alone. (The Lancet 1990 336 (8723) 1120)

The governing body of the therapy in the UK is the Aromatherapy Organisations Council (AOC) which represents the majority of professional practitioners. Enquiries: AOC, 3 Latymer Close, Braybrooke, Market Harborough. Leicester LE16 8LN. Tel/Fax 01858 434242. ... aromatherapy

A plant-based diet with small amounts of poultry, fish or meat for non- vegetarians. A return to the traditional diet of local natural foods as found in some primitive communities and which is believed to increase immunity against degenerative diseases of the civilised world.

The average macrobiotic diet is made up approximately of the proportions: whole grains 45 per cent; vegetables 25 per cent; beans, legumes and seeds 10 per cent; nuts 5 per cent; fruit 5 per cent; seaweeds 5 per cent; poultry 2.5 per cent; fish 2.5 per cent.

Whole grains: wheat, barley, rye, oats, brown rice, buckwheat, millet, corn. Vegetables: green leaves and roots – grown organically. Beans, legumes and seeds: all beans, aduki, lentils, chickpeas. Seeds: sesame, sunflower, etc. Seaweeds: hiziki, wakama, dulse, Carragheen moss, kelp. Very low sugar. Moderate fats and oils. ... diet - macrobiotic

The cause of: coronary occlusion, coronary blockage, coronary thrombosis. A heart attack occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked by swellings composed, among other things, of cholesterol. Such swellings may obstruct the flow of blood leading to a blood clot (thrombus). Cholesterol is a major cause of CHD.

Coronary thrombosis is more common in the West because of its preference for animal fats; whereas in the East fats usually take the form of vegetable oils – corn, sunflower seed, sesame, etc. Fatty deposits (atheroma) form in the wall of the coronary artery, obstructing blood-flow. Vessels narrowed by atheroma and by contact with calcium and other salts become hard and brittle (arterio-sclerosis) and are easily blocked. Robbed of oxygen and nutrients heart muscle dies and is replaced by inelastic fibrous (scar) tissue which robs the heart of its maximum performance.

Severe pain and collapse follow a blockage. Where only a small branch of the coronary arterial tree is affected recovery is possible. Cause of the pain is lack of oxygen (Vitamin E). Incidence is highest among women over 40 who smoke excessively and who take The Pill.

The first warning sign is breathlessness and anginal pain behind the breastbone which radiates to arms and neck. Sensation as if the chest is held in a vice. First-line agent to improve flow of blood – Cactus.

For cholesterol control target the liver. Coffee is a minor risk factor.

Measuring hair calcium levels is said to predict those at risk of coronary heart disease. Low hair concentrations may be linked with poor calcium metabolism, high aortic calcium build-up and the formation of plagues. (Dr Allan MacPherson, nutritionist, Scottish Agricultural College, Ayr, Scotland)

Evidence has been advanced that a diagonal ear lobe crease may be a predictor for coronary heart disease. (American Journal of Cardiology, Dec. 1992)

Tooth decay is linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and mortality, particularly in young men. (Dr Frank De Stefano, Marshfield Medical Research Foundation, Wisconsin, USA) Treatment. Urgency. Send for doctor or suitably qualified practitioner. Absolute bedrest for 3 weeks followed by 3 months convalescence. Thereafter: adapt lifestyle to slower tempo and avoid undue exertion. Stop smoking. Adequate exercise. Watch weight.

Cardiotonics: Motherwort, Hawthorn, Mistletoe, Rosemary. Ephedra, Lily of the Valley, Broom.

Cardiac vasodilators relax tension on the vessels by increasing capacity of the arteries to carry more blood. Others contain complex glycosides that stimulate or relax the heart at its work. Garlic is strongly recommended as a preventative of CHD.

Hawthorn, vasodilator and anti-hypertensive, is reputed to dissolve deposits in thickened and sclerotic arteries BHP (1983). It is believed to regulate the balance of lipids (body fats) one of which is cholesterol.

Serenity tea. Equal parts: Motherwort, Lemon Balm, Hawthorn leaves or flowers. 1 heaped teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 5-15 minutes; 1 cup freely.

Decoction. Combine equal parts: Broom, Lily of the Valley, Hawthorn. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup water gently simmered 20 minutes. Half-1 cup freely.

Tablets/capsules. Hawthorn, Motherwort, Cactus, Mistletoe, Garlic.

Practitioner. Formula. Hawthorn 20ml; Lily of the Valley 10ml; Pulsatilla 5ml; Stone root 5ml; Barberry 5ml. Tincture Capsicum 1ml. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extracts: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water or honey.

Prevention: Vitamin E – 400iu daily.

Diet. See: DIET – HEART AND CIRCULATION.

Supplements. Daily. Vitamin C, 2g. Vitamin E possesses anti-clotting properties, 400iu. Broad spectrum multivitamin and mineral including chromium, magnesium selenium, zinc, copper.

Acute condition. Strict bed-rest; regulate bowels; avoid excessive physical and mental exertion. Meditation and relaxation techniques dramatically reduce coronary risk. ... coronary heart disease

Fever sore. Caused by Herpes simplex, type 1, (HSV1). Infects face, mouth and eyes. Maybe transmitted by kissing. Cold sores around mouth which ulcerate and form a scab. Recurrent, painful. May be a devastating disease when attacking the brain (herpes simplex encephalitis). Infection may come en route via mouth, lips or elsewhere in the body. Cold sores around the eyes should receive medical attention.

Alternatives. Balm tea. Melissa officinalis is active against the herpes simplex virus and clinical trials yield excellent results. (European Journal of Herbal Medicine, Vol 1, No 1)

Russian traditional. Handful of pulped Wild Garlic leaves (Ramsons) macerated in Vodka to saturation point; 7 days. 1-2 teaspoons in water thrice daily.

Oil of Cloves (3-5 drops). Anti-viral activity against herpes simplex.

Other anti-virals. Garlic, Echinacea, Aloe Vera, Eucalyptus, Yarrow, Elderflowers, Burdock, Wild Indigo. St John’s Wort.

Tea. Formula. Equal parts, Yarrow, Balm, Gotu Kola. 1-2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water; infuse 15 minutes. Half-1 cup thrice daily, before meals.

Powders. Combine: Echinacea 2; Goldenseal quarter, Myrrh quarter. 500mg (two 00 capsules or one- third teaspoon) thrice daily.

Tinctures. (1) Combine: Echinacea 2; Chamomile 1; Liquorice half. Or (2) Combine: Peruvian bark half; Meadowsweet 1; Chamomile half. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons in water thrice daily.

Thuja. 70 per cent ethanolic extract of Thuja occ., inhibits herpes simplex (HSV) in vitro. (Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Munich; C. Gerha?user, et al)

Topical. Houseleek juice. Wipe with sliced Garlic corm. Oils of Cade, Cajeput, Sesame, Aloe Vera, dilute oil Eucalyptus.

Diet. Wholefoods, high fibre, low fat. Plenty fresh raw fruit and vegetables, yoghurt.

Supplementation. Same as for Shingles.

Self-Care. Towels, face cloths and other personal linen should not be shared. ... herpes simplex

two groups of polyunsaturated fatty acids (see unsaturated fatty acid) that are essential for health but cannot be synthesized by the body. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is the precursor for the *omega-3 fatty acids. Good sources include walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, rapeseed, soya, and corn oil. ALA can be converted (although not very efficiently) into DHA and EPA (the omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish). Arachidonic acid is not considered an essential fatty acid as it can normally be synthesized from ALA. Linoleic acid is the precursor for the n-6 (or omega-6) fatty acids. Good sources include vegetable oils, such as corn, safflower, soybean, sesame, sunflower, and walnuts. Both omega-3 and omega-6 acids should be consumed in the diet.... essential fatty acids