Sesame, commonly known as "fat hemp" and "flax" (see page 80 of this book for its performance, precautions and taboos, formula and usage). Originated in Africa, Zhang Qian sent an envoy to the Western Regions in Han Dynasty and brought sesame to China, so it was called flax. Because it contains more fat, it is also called sesame.

According to Shennong's Herbal Classic, sesame is mainly used to "tonify five internal organs, strengthen tendons, promote granulation, fill marrow and brain." Ming Yi Lu said that it has the functions of strengthening bones and muscles, keeping eyes and ears open, resisting hunger and thirst, and prolonging life. Ge Hong of the Jin Dynasty said that sesame "can make the body shiny, and the white hair is still black." These functions of sesame have been confirmed by modern medical theory and practice.

According to the determination, sesame contains many nutrients. Every 100g sesame contains protein 2 1.9g, fat 6 1.7g, calcium 564mg and phosphorus 368mg. In particular, the content of iron is extremely high, up to 50 mg100g. Most of the fat contained in sesame is unsaturated fatty acid, and it is rich in vitamin E, which is especially important for the elderly. It seems that it is reasonable for the ancients to take sesame seeds to eliminate all chronic diseases, rejuvenate and live forever. The mechanism of vitamin E is antioxidation, which can prevent the production of lipid peroxide in the body, thus maintaining the integrity and normal function of cell membrane with concentrated unsaturated fatty acids. And can prevent other components in the body from being damaged by lipid peroxide. In addition, vitamin E can also reduce the accumulation of lipofuscin in the body. All these can play a role in delaying aging.

Sesame is rich in lecithin and linoleic acid, which can not only treat atherosclerosis, strengthen brain and enhance memory, but also prevent premature whitening and shedding of hair, beautify and moisturize skin, and maintain and restore youthful vitality. Chinese medicine believes that sesame is a tonic and strong medicine, which has the effects of enriching blood, promoting fluid production, moistening intestines, promoting lactation and nourishing hair, and is suitable for weak body, premature gray hair, anemia, insufficient body fluid, constipation, dizziness and tinnitus. It is found that sesame also contains antioxidant element selenium, which can enhance the resistance of cells to harmful substances, thus playing a role in prolonging life.