"The Multifaceted Role of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.): From Nutritional and Phytochemical Insights to Industrial Innovations"

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), a member of the Pedaliaceae family, is one of the earliest known oilseed crops utilized by humans. It is extensively cultivated and widely appreciated for its mild flavour and high nutritional content, making it a valued component of the human diet. Sesame seeds are rich in proteins and lipids and are associated with numerous health benefits. Various in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies have demonstrated that sesame seeds contain lignan-like bioactive compounds with diverse pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, lipid-regulating, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumour properties. These effects contribute significantly to human health. Moreover, aqueous extracts of sesame have been shown to be safe in animal studies. As a food with both nutritional and medicinal value, sesame is utilized across multiple sectors including food, animal feed, and cosmetics. The growing interest in functional foods has led to increased exploration of sesame’s health-promoting applications. This review highlights recent advancements in research concerning the nutritional value, phytochemical composition, pharmacological properties, and industrial applications of sesame, with the aim of promoting its further development and utilization.