Sesame is commonly known as “Till”. Its botanical name is Sesamum indicum L. It is one of the earliest domesticated plants. It is a short duration crop grown throughout the year. The seeds of the plant yield edible oil. Due to the presence of potent antioxidant, sesame seeds are known as “the seed of immortality”. Two distinct types of seed are recognized, the white and the black. There are also intermediate coloured varieties varying from red to rose or from brown or grey.
Sesame seed is an important food ingredient in many countries which is widely known for its health benefits & culinary applications. The nutty morsel is evenly loaded with nutrients and is also used in traditional medicines. With around 45-50% of oil content, sesame seeds impart good texture, rich flavors, unique crunchiness & a certain smokiness to various cuisines across the globe.
Sesame seed oil is extensively used in pharmaceuticals and personal care products, such as soaps and hair oils. Widespread usage of the oil for treatment of scalp dandruff and fungal infections owing to its exceptional medicinal properties is also expected to boost the market in future. In addition, food products such as sauces and pickles use of sesame oil as a preservative to increase their shelf life. Major oil extraction companies are reliant on small- and large-scale sesame farmers for seed collection and extraction of the oil.