🔍 What is Cold Pressed Sesame Oil?

Cold pressed sesame oil, known as நல்லெண்ணெய் (Nallennai) in Tamil, is extracted from sesame seeds using traditional methods without heat or chemicals. This ancient Ayurvedic technique preserves all the natural nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that make sesame oil a superfood.

Cold Pressed vs Regular Oil

Unlike refined oils that are heated to 200°C+ and treated with chemicals, cold pressed oil is extracted at temperatures below 50°C. This preserves:

• Natural antioxidants (Sesamol, Sesamin)
• Vitamin E, K, B-complex
• Essential fatty acids (Omega-3, Omega-6)
• Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron
• Natural aroma and taste

💪 15 Proven Health Benefits of Cold Pressed Sesame Oil

1. Hair Growth & Hair Fall Control – தலைக்கு நல்லெண்ணெய் massage stimulates blood circulation in scalp, strengthens hair roots, and reduces dandruff. Apply warm oil 2-3 times weekly.
2. Glowing Skin & Anti-Aging – Rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants that fight wrinkles, dark spots, and sun damage. Acts as natural moisturizer for dry skin.
3. Boosts Immunity – Zinc and copper content strengthen immune system. Regular consumption protects against seasonal infections.
4. Strong Bones & Teeth – High calcium, zinc, and phosphorus content improve bone density. Prevents osteoporosis in old age.
5. Heart Health – Lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL). Prevents heart blockages and strokes.
6. Better Digestion – One spoon empty stomach improves gut health, relieves constipation, and detoxifies intestines.
7. Weight Management – Healthy fats increase metabolism and promote fat burning. Keeps you fuller for longer.
8. Diabetes Control – Regulates blood sugar levels. Low glycemic index suitable for diabetic patients.
9. Joint Pain Relief – Warm oil massage reduces arthritis pain, joint inflammation, and muscle soreness.
10. Oral Health (Oil Pulling) – Swishing 1 tablespoon for 10 minutes removes bacteria, whitens teeth, and prevents gum disease.
11. Stress & Sleep – Head and foot massage with sesame oil calms nervous system and promotes deep sleep.
12. Pregnancy & Lactation – Safe during pregnancy. Increases breast milk production in lactating mothers.
13. Liver Detox – Natural antioxidants cleanse liver and remove toxins from body.
14. Vision Health – Vitamin A content improves eyesight and prevents age-related vision problems.
15. Cancer Prevention – Sesamol and Sesamin compounds have anti-cancer properties according to research studies.

⚖️ Black Sesame Oil vs White Sesame Oil – Which is Better?

💡 Pro Tip: For maximum benefits, use black sesame oil for hair massage and white sesame oil for cooking. Both are excellent choices!

📖 How to Use Cold Pressed Sesame Oil (நல்லெண்ணெய் பயன்படுத்தும் முறை)

1. For Hair (தலைமுடிக்கு)

• Warm 2-3 tablespoons of oil
• Massage into scalp for 10 minutes
• Apply to hair length
• Leave for 1-2 hours or overnight
• Wash with mild shampoo
• Frequency: 2-3 times per week

2. For Cooking (சமையலுக்கு)

• Use 1-2 tablespoons for tempering (தாளிக்க)
• Add to dal, sambar, rasam for flavor
• Mix with rice for children (சாதத்தில்)
• Use for low-medium heat cooking only

3. For Skin (தோல் பராமரிப்பு)

• Apply on damp skin after bath
• Use as face serum at night
• Mix with turmeric for glowing skin
• Body massage before bath

4. Oil Pulling (வாய் கொப்பளிப்பு)

• Take 1 tablespoon oil in mouth
• Swish for 10-15 minutes
• Spit out (don’t swallow)
• Rinse with warm water
• Do this empty stomach daily

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

🛒 Buying Guide – What to Look For

✅ Must-Have Features:

• 100% Cold Pressed – No heat treatment
• No Chemicals – Hexane-free extraction
• Wooden Churned (மரச்செக்கு) – Traditional method
• Single Pressed – Not double pressed for more oil
• Glass Bottle – Preserves quality, not plastic
• Organic Certified – Pesticide-free seeds
• FSSAI Certified – Food safety approved

❌ Red Flags to Avoid:

• Too cheap price (under ₹200/liter)
• Clear/transparent color (should be yellowish)
• No smell or chemical smell
• Plastic packaging
• No manufacturing date or FSSAI license