Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) seeds are among the earliest domesticated oil-bearing crops and are widely recognized for their dense phytochemical composition and long history of therapeutic use. Their biochemical richness comprised of lignans, phenolics, tocopherols, phytosterols, flavonoids, and essential fatty acids has attracted substantial scientific interest due to documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. The phytolignans sesamin, sesamol, and sesamolin demonstrate a capacity to modulate oxidative pathways, influence lipid metabolism, and support vascular health. In traditional medical systems, including Ayurveda and East Asian medicine, sesame seeds have been incorporated as rejuvenating and disease-modifying agents, aligning with modern evidence on their bioactive potential. Despite the abundance of research on individual compounds, a simplified consolidated overview highlighting their therapeutic potential remains limited, resulting in a fragmented understanding among nutritionists, clinicians, and food scientists.
This review synthesizes pre-2024 scientific findings to provide an accessible overview of the phytochemical profile of sesame seeds, their biological activities, and their prospective role as natural therapeutic agents. Key phytochemicals are characterized with emphasis on their mechanisms of action in oxidative stress regulation, lipid profile improvement, glycemic control, and immune modulation. In addition, the review discusses the relevance of sesame-derived compounds in chronic disease prevention, including cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, and liver disorders. By integrating biochemical, nutritional, and functional health perspectives, this overview highlights the emerging therapeutic relevance of sesame seeds as functional foods. The article further underscores research gaps and future opportunities for translational applications in nutraceuticals and dietary interventions. Collectively, the evidence suggests that sesame seeds possess a multifaceted therapeutic profile, supporting their use as natural, safe, and accessible agents for health promotion and disease prevention.
International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Life Science
