"Your body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to restore in"

B.K.S. Iyengar

"Black Sesame? What? Didn't even know that it exists!" This is the reaction I received from 99% of the people I talked to about this in the last few weeks. Yes, it does exist, it is the sister of the golden/yellowish sesame seed. The color depends on where the seeds are growing. Black sesame seeds are very special though, they come mostly from the Himalaya region and have a very special nutrient composition. That is why they are also called the healthiest of its kind and thus the archetype.

But how do I know all of this? You might wonder...I recently had a Skype call with my Ayurvedic doctor in Kerala, India. Dr. K.P Hema Bams is Chief Physician at the Nattika Beach Ayurveda Resort with over 29 years of Ayurveda Panchakarma hospital experience. I did hear about black sesame before but during that call, she explained to me the magical power of this tiny seed and I want to share it with you!

10 secrets about the magical power of black sesame

#1 Ingredients

But what makes black sesame so special that it was used as a natural remedy already 1'000 years B.C.? It is due to the many nutrients and building materials that it contains. 100 g black sesame seeds contain:

-protein

-calcium

-magnesium

-iron

-zinc

-vitamin a

-vitamin b complex

-selenium

-phosphor

-phytic acid

-amino acid

-lecithin

#2 Super rich in calcium

Black sesame is one of the most calcium-rich foods on earth and supports the development of joints, bones and teeth. For comparison: 100 g milk contain 120 mg calcium, while 100 g sesame contain around 800 mg calcium.

#3 Rich in antioxidants

Your new friend has an antioxidant effect that frees the body from free radicals and can therefore contribute to detoxification of the body.

#4 Plant based protein

Since black sesame contains a lot of plant based protein and many essential amino acids, it has a strengthening effect on the skin, hair and nails and helps to build up hormones, cells and muscles.

#5 Low carbs

The seeds contain very little carbohydrates but lots of easily absorbed protein. This makes it the perfect sports snack - especially for vegans.

#6 Support of immune system

Black sesame supports our immune system with its valuable ingredients such as vitamins A, B1, B2 and B3 and it is this specific combination that strengthens our immune system.

#7 Support of intestinal flora

It is also good for the intestinal flora, since black sesame contains lots of fibers that are easier to dissolve in the intestine than whole grains, for example. They also help our bodies clean the intestine at the same time.

#8 Promotion of concentration

It has been proven by the latest research, that the small seeds promote concentration, as it boosts the oxygen supply in the brain. If you consume it regularly, it should even prevent Alzheimer's.

#9 Promotion of blood circulation

It is known for promoting the blood circulation. More specifically, the lecithin in black sesame is responsible for this because it promotes the flow-ability of the blood, which in turn also ensures strong nerves.

#10 Small dosage - big impact

You only need 2 tea spoons per day to achieve the above mentioned benefits which makes black sesame the perfect super food. Plus, it isn't that expensive compared to goji berries and açai powder.

Cooking suggestions

Black sesame tastes slightly earthy and nutty. Therefore, and also because it is better absorbed by the body when wet, I suggest you add it to your muesli, smoothie or sprinkle it over almost any type of dish including salad. You can also use it to bake your own cookies, cake, bread or energy balls/bars. Ideally, you soak the seeds overnight in water/milk and then add them to your food. If you don't have the time to do that, I advise to crush them in a mortar, this also helps your body to absorb the nutrients. Happy cooking!