Sesame Seeds: A Thai-Heritage Health Link Fueled by Modern Science
Sesame seeds, known in Thai as nga, come in white (nga khao) and black (nga dam). They appear in kitchens, temples, and traditional healing practices, linking culture, cuisine, and wellness. Today, sesame is drawing renewed scientific interest as Thailand and the world explore natural health remedies. Its rich heritage paired with emerging evidence offers practical insights for contemporary wellness.
In Thai history, sesame has symbolized nourishment and healing. Its roots extend back thousands of years across India, China, and the Mediterranean, with seeds found in archaeological sites. In Thailand, sesame features in temple offerings, festival foods, and everyday meals, while fragrant sesame oil (nam man nga) is widely used. Traditional Thai medicine regards black sesame as a longevity-promoting food believed to support organs, bolster vitality, and aid digestion.