What Are the Differences Between Flaxseed and Sesame?

Sesame seeds are a common ingredient in our daily lives, known for their distinct aroma and flavor enhancing properties, often utilized in various culinary dishes. Additionally, they are also used for oil extraction, similar to flaxseeds. However, it's important to note that flaxseeds and sesame seeds are two distinct entities, differing significantly in their nutritional value. With a basic understanding, it becomes easier to distinguish between the two.

1.1 Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds are the mature seeds of the flax plant and are primarily used as a source of oil in the production of edible vegetable oil. They are rich in fat, protein, dietary fiber, and other components such as minerals, alpha-linolenic acid, lignans, flaxseed gum, vitamins, and so on. However, scientific studies have shown that flaxseeds contain toxic substances or anti-nutritional factors such as cyanogenic glycosides, anti-VB6 factors, and phytic acid. Cyanogenic glycosides, also known as cyanides or cyanohydrins, can produce cyanide under the action of hydrolytic enzymes (beta-glucosidase). The content of cyanogenic glycosides in raw flaxseeds varies depending on the species, origin, and environmental conditions.

1.2 Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds, also known as zhima or huma, are the seeds of the sesame plant and are one of the main oilseed crops in China, possessing high economic value. Their seeds contain up to 55% oil, making them a rich source for oil extraction. Since ancient times, China has been renowned for its various foods and delicious dishes made with sesame seeds and sesame oil. Sesame oil, extracted from these seeds, is known for its fragrant aroma and can be used both raw and cooked. It is also used in medicine, as a high-quality massage oil, or as a base for ointments, lubricants, and detoxifying agents. Sugar-processed sesame oil can be used to make butter and cosmetics, while the flowers and stems of the sesame plant can provide fragrances for perfume manufacturing. The oil extracted from sesame seeds through hot pressing can be used to make carbon paper, and the smoke produced by burning sesame oil can be used to make high-quality ink. The stems of sesame plants can be used as fuel, and sesame seeds can also be used in industrial applications such as the production of lubricating oils and soaps.

2.1 Economic Value

Sesame seeds rank among the top four edible oilseed crops in China and are a significant contributor to the country's oilseed production. The oil extracted from sesame seeds has a fragrant aroma and is commonly known as sesame oil. It can be used as a cooking oil or for medicinal purposes, such as a high-quality massage oil, a base for ointments, lubricants, and detoxifying agents. Sugar-processed sesame oil can be used to manufacture butter and cosmetics. The flowers and stems of the sesame plant can provide fragrances for perfume manufacturing, while hot-pressed sesame oil can be used to make carbon paper. The smoke produced by burning sesame oil can be used to produce high-quality ink, and the stems of the sesame plant can be used as fuel. Additionally, sesame seeds can be used in industrial applications such as the production of lubricating oils and soaps. Sesame seed meal, which is rich in protein, nitrogen (around 5.9%), phosphorus (around 3.3%), and potassium oxide (1.5%), can also be used as an excellent fertilizer and livestock feed.

2.2 Edible Value

Sesame seeds are versatile ingredients that can be used in various cooking applications. They can be used as fillings for pastries, coatings for snacks and buns, or as flavorings for dishes. Common sesame products consumed in daily life include sesame powder, sesame paste, sesame cakes, and sesame sauce. Regular consumption of sesame seeds has numerous health benefits. For instance, they help maintain skin elasticity and smoothness, making it appear younger and healthier. People with chronic constipation may experience improved skin condition as sesame seeds can lubricate the intestines and relieve constipation. Additionally, sesame seeds contain substances such as lecithin, choline, and inositol that help prevent obesity, making them suitable for inclusion in weight loss diets. Consuming sesame seeds along with a calorie-restricted diet can also help improve the appearance of dry and rough skin.