Til (Sesame) is a renowned plant in Ayurveda, celebrated for its warming, nourishing, and grounding properties. Known for its rich oil content, Til plays a significant role in various Ayurvedic therapies, especially for Vata balancing, skin health, and as a nourishing tonic. It is used in multiple forms such as seeds, oil, and paste to treat a range of health issues.

Til in Ayurveda

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Sesamum indicum
• Family: Pedaliaceae

2. Description

Til is a small annual herb that grows up to 2-3 feet tall, with oblong leaves and tubular flowers that range from white to pale pink. Its seeds are small, flat, and can be white, black, or brown. Sesame seeds are highly valued for their high oil content and are commonly used in Ayurvedic oils, culinary recipes, and therapeutic applications.

3. Occurrence

Til is native to Africa and India and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, especially in India, China, Myanmar, and Ethiopia. It thrives in warm climates with well-drained soils.

4. Chemical Constituents

Til is rich in:

• Fatty Acids: Linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid.
• Sesamin and Sesamolin: Unique lignans with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vitamins: Vitamin E, B-complex vitamins (thiamine, niacin, folic acid).
• Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc.
• Proteins: Contains essential amino acids like tryptophan.
• Antioxidants: Including sesamol and sesaminol.

5. Guna (Qualities in Ayurveda)

• Rasa (Taste): Madhura (sweet), Tikta (bitter)
• Guna (Qualities): Snigdha (unctuous), Guru (heavy)
• Virya (Potency): Ushna (hot)
• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)

6. Uses in Ayurveda

Til has extensive uses in Ayurveda due to its nourishing and therapeutic qualities:

• Vata Balancing: Due to its oily, warming nature, it is ideal for pacifying Vata dosha and is often used in oil massages to relieve Vata imbalances.
• Skin Health: Sesame oil is a popular choice in Ayurvedic skin care for moisturizing, healing, and enhancing skin elasticity.
• Digestive Health: The seeds help to stimulate digestion, improve bowel movements, and relieve constipation.
• Bone Strengthening: The high calcium and magnesium content makes it beneficial for bone health.
• Rejuvenative (Rasayana): Til is used as a rejuvenative for its ability to nourish tissues, strengthen the body, and promote vitality.
• Hair Health: Known to improve hair texture, promote growth, and prevent premature graying.

7. Mode of Action

Til works on the body by deeply nourishing and grounding the tissues (Dhatus). Its warm and heavy nature provides stability to the body, especially for those with a Vata constitution or imbalance. The high oil content moisturizes internally and externally, supporting joint lubrication, smooth digestion, and radiant skin. Til’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help protect the body against oxidative damage, while its minerals strengthen bones and muscles.

8. Home Remedies

• For Dry Skin: Apply warm sesame oil on the skin daily before a bath to reduce dryness, improve elasticity, and nourish the skin.
• For Constipation: Soak 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds in warm water overnight and consume it on an empty stomach in the morning to promote regular bowel movements.
• For Joint Pain: Massage warm sesame oil on affected joints to relieve stiffness and pain.
• For Hair Care: Massage sesame oil into the scalp to prevent hair fall, improve hair strength, and delay graying.
• For Oral Health: Practice oil pulling by swishing sesame oil in the mouth for 5-10 minutes every morning. This supports gum health, prevents cavities, and strengthens teeth.

9. Dosage

• Sesame Seeds: 1-2 teaspoons daily as part of the diet.
• Sesame Oil: Externally, it can be used as needed for massage and skin care; internally, 1 teaspoon per day is generally recommended for adults (consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before internal use).

10. Caution and Contraindications

• Excess Heat: Due to its heating nature, Til should be used in moderation by individuals with Pitta dosha imbalances, as it may aggravate heat in the body, leading to issues like acid reflux, skin rashes, or inflammation.
• Obesity and Kapha: Due to its heavy and oily nature, excessive use of Til may aggravate Kapha dosha and is not recommended for individuals with high Kapha or those prone to weight gain.
• Allergies: Some people may be allergic to sesame seeds; they should avoid use if any allergic symptoms occur.

Summary

Til (Sesamum indicum) is a powerful Ayurvedic herb with nourishing, warming, and rejuvenative properties. It is particularly beneficial for balancing Vata, supporting skin and hair health, strengthening bones, and providing overall vitality. While Til is safe for most people, those with high Pitta or Kapha should use it mindfully due to its heating and oily nature. As a versatile Ayurvedic herb, Til remains an invaluable resource for promoting longevity and holistic wellness.