Sesame Seed Oil

Allopathic
Indications
  • Topical Use:
    • Treatment and prevention of dry, rough, or flaky skin
    • Protection and soothing of minor skin irritations, chapping, and superficial burns
    • Adjunctive care for mild eczema and dermatitis to relieve itching and inflammation
    • Support for wound healing by maintaining skin hydration and barrier integrity
    • Use as a massage oil to improve skin texture and circulation
  • Oral Use:
    • Nutritional supplement to support cardiovascular health
    • Management of dyslipidemia by improving cholesterol profiles
    • Anti-inflammatory support in chronic conditions
    • Adjunctive therapy for blood pressure regulation
  • Off-label Uses:
    • Scalp care and hair conditioning
    • Relief of neuropathic pain symptoms (under investigation)
Dosage & Administration
  • Topical:
    Apply a thin layer to the affected or dry skin areas 1–3 times daily. Massage gently until absorbed. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Use regularly for continued benefits or until symptoms resolve.
  • Oral:
    Common doses range from 1 to 4 tablespoons (15–60 mL) daily, preferably divided and taken with meals. Oral use should be supervised in children and the elderly.
  • Special Populations:
    No specific dose adjustment is typically required for elderly or patients with renal or hepatic impairment; caution advised with oral use in these groups.
  • Route of Administration:
    Topical application for skin indications; oral ingestion for systemic benefits.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Sesame seed oil contains high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (notably linoleic and oleic acids), natural antioxidants such as sesamin, sesamol, and vitamin E, which collectively protect cell membranes from oxidative damage and support skin barrier repair. The oil’s anti-inflammatory effects result from modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Topically, sesame oil replenishes essential lipids, enhancing skin hydration and elasticity. Orally, its antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects contribute to cardiovascular protection by improving lipid metabolism and reducing systemic oxidative stress.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption:
    Well absorbed through the skin; oral bioavailability varies with fat content of the meal.
  • Distribution:
    Incorporated into plasma lipids and cellular membranes after oral ingestion; remains localized in epidermis when applied topically.
  • Metabolism:
    Fatty acids metabolized via β-oxidation in the liver; antioxidants processed by hepatic enzymatic pathways.
  • Elimination:
    Metabolites excreted primarily via urine and feces.
  • Onset and Duration:
    Topical effects observed within hours; oral systemic effects require consistent use over weeks.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy:
    Considered safe for topical and dietary use during pregnancy, with no evidence of teratogenicity.
  • Lactation:
    Safe for use during breastfeeding; minimal systemic absorption limits infant exposure.
Therapeutic Class
  • Natural oil – Emollient and Nutraceutical
  • Vegetable seed oil with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Contraindications
  • Known allergy or hypersensitivity to sesame seed oil or related plant-derived oils
  • Avoid use on infected skin or open wounds without medical supervision
Warnings & Precautions
  • Monitor for allergic reactions, especially in patients with nut or seed allergies
  • Discontinue use if skin irritation or rash develops
  • Use cautiously in patients with atopic dermatitis or sensitive skin
  • Oral use in large doses may cause gastrointestinal upset
Side Effects
  • Common: Mild transient skin irritation or redness with topical application
  • Rare: Allergic contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity reactions
  • Oral Use: Occasional gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or diarrhea at high doses
Drug Interactions
  • No significant drug interactions reported with topical or oral use
  • Oral sesame oil may theoretically affect absorption of fat-soluble medications; monitor as needed
  • Does not significantly affect CYP450 enzymes
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • Recognized increasingly for cardiovascular and dermatologic health benefits in clinical practice guidelines
  • No recent major safety warnings or regulatory changes
  • Recommended as a natural emollient in skincare protocols for dry and sensitive skin
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), protected from light and moisture
  • Keep container tightly closed to prevent oxidation
  • Avoid freezing and exposure to high humidity
  • Discard if rancid odor or discoloration occurs