Scientific Name Sesamum indicum Linn. syn. S. orientale Linn.
Family Pedaliaceae
Used Part Seeds

Distribution Area An erect, branched or unbranched annual, 60-180 cm.
high, cultivated throughout the plains of India and up to an altitude of 1,200 m.

Common Uses . Sesamum seeds are considered emollient, diuretic,
lactagogue and a nourishing tonic. They are said to be helpful in piles, a paste of the seeds mixed with butter being used in bleeding piles. A decoction of the seed is said to be an emmenagogue and is also given in cough. Combined with linseed, the decoction of the seeds and as an aphrodisiac. A plaster made of ground seeds is applied to burns, scalds, etc. and a poultice of the seeds is applied to ulcers. Powdered seeds are used in amenorrhoea and dysmenorrhoea Fresh leaves are useful in catarrhal affections of kidney and bladder; externally they are applied in ophthalmic and cutaneous complaints. A decoction of leaves and roots is employed as a hair wash.

to promote hair-growth. The mucilaginous juice of the plant is used to destroy hair lice