Many things in the world are relative—where there is black, there is white. Just as Chinese Bagua philosophy emphasizes the balance of yin and yang, corresponding examples exist in food. Take white sesame seeds and black sesame seeds, for instance. Though both belong to the sesame family, they differ in color and possess distinct characteristics.White sesame seeds are often sprinkled on pastries, while black sesame powder is typically used for brewing. We select different ingredients based on their intended applications.
Many people remain unclear about the distinction between white and black sesame seeds, assuming they are interchangeable. However, significant differences exist. To address this confusion, we will now outline their key differences.
Historically known as "Hu Ma" (Hu sesame), black sesame seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and other nutrients. They also contain various vitamins, sesamin, sesamol, sterols, and lecithin. The Divine Farmer's Classic of Materia Medica states that sesame seeds primarily treat "internal injuries and debility, nourish the five vital organs, boost energy, build muscle, replenish essence, and enrich marrow."The Compendium of Materia Medica states: "Consuming [black sesame] for a hundred days can eliminate all chronic ailments. After one year, the body and complexion become radiant without hunger; after two years, white hair turns black again; after three years, fallen teeth regrow." As a dietary remedy, black sesame benefits the liver, nourishes the kidneys, enriches blood, moistens dryness, darkens hair, and enhances beauty, making it an optimal health and beauty food.The remarkable efficacy of black sesame also lies in its vitamin E content, which ranks highest among plant-based foods. Vitamin E promotes cell division and delays cellular aging. Regular consumption can counteract or neutralize the accumulation of "free radicals"—aging substances within cells—thus exerting anti-aging effects and prolonging life.They can relieve constipation.
Individuals dieting for weight loss often experience dry, rough skin due to insufficient nutrient intake. Sesame seeds contain lecithin, choline, and myo-inositol—substances that prevent weight gain—so consuming them in moderation won't lead to obesity.
Combining sesame consumption with a weight-loss diet can improve rough skin texture.Moreover, sesame seeds contain sesamol, a potent anti-aging compound, making them an important tonic for preventing female aging. Rich in B vitamins, they promote metabolism and support the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone, thereby enhancing breast health.
Black sesame seeds nourish the blood and strengthen the liver and kidneys, enhancing hearing and vision. As people age, many experience blurred vision or hearing loss, primarily due to insufficient liver and kidney function and deficiency of kidney essence. Regular consumption of roasted black sesame seeds can delay and control vision deterioration.Specific preparation: Roast black sesame seeds until fragrant, then grind into powder. Consume one tablespoon (approximately 20 grams) upon waking and another half an hour before bedtime. For elderly individuals with hearing loss due to liver and kidney yin deficiency, combine black sesame with milk. Method: 30 grams black sesame seeds, 200 ml fresh milk, 10 grams white sugar.First, wash and sun-dry the black sesame seeds. Roast them in a pan over low heat until fragrant, then grind into a fine powder while hot. Pour fresh milk into a pot, add the black sesame powder and sugar, and simmer over low heat. Remove from heat once boiling, then pour into a cup. Consume with breakfast, finishing the entire portion at once.
Furthermore, sesame seeds come in black and white varieties. Black sesame seeds possess stronger nourishing properties than white sesame seeds and are an excellent anti-aging food. Not only do they darken hair, but contemporary medical research indicates that black sesame seeds are also rich in vitamin E, which can enhance complexion radiance and delay aging. However, patients with conditions such as breast cancer who should avoid vitamin E should not consume large quantities of black sesame seeds.
Additionally, due to their high oil content, sesame seeds have a laxative effect, making them useful for preventing and treating constipation caused by blood deficiency and fluid depletion in the elderly. When combined with honey, their laxative effect is enhanced. However, they are not suitable for individuals with loose stools due to spleen deficiency.
Due to their brain-nourishing and marrow-strengthening properties, black sesame seeds are highly beneficial for elderly individuals experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or memory decline caused by liver and kidney deficiency.For dizziness and vertigo: Roast an appropriate amount of black sesame seeds until fragrant, then grind into a fine powder. Cook 50 grams of rice with an appropriate amount of white sugar into a thick porridge. Stir in 20 grams of black sesame powder, let sit for 3 minutes, and consume warm on an empty stomach upon waking and at dinner each day. For memory decline: Take equal parts black sesame seeds and taro, steam them together over rice, and eat with the rice three times daily.
Black sesame seeds are exceptionally rich in calcium, making them an ideal nutritional supplement for vegetarians. Additionally, due to their lactation-promoting properties, new mothers experiencing low milk supply can consume a soup made by stewing black sesame seeds with pig's trotters and white radish.
We all know black sesame seeds nourish hair and enhance complexion, while the sesame oil we use is pressed from white sesame seeds.Women who have given birth and wish to increase milk supply can also consume more black sesame seeds to aid lactation. Flatbreads made with white sesame seeds carry a rich sesame flavor and are frequently used in grilling and cooking. That concludes our introduction today; we hope you find it helpful.