Sesamin is a lignan isolated from the bark of Fagara plants and from sesame oil. It has been used as a dietary fat-reduction supplement.
Sesamin is a naturally occurring lignan compound found in sesame seeds and oil. It belongs to a class of phytochemicals, which are bioactive compounds produced by plants. Chemically, sesamin is classified as a lignan due to its structure, which consists of two phenyl rings connected by a short linker.
The molecular formula of sesamin is C20H18O6, and its molecular weight is approximately 354.35 grams per mole. It is characterized by its polyphenolic structure, containing multiple hydroxyl (OH) groups. Sesamin is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and ether.
Sesamin has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also studied for its potential role in promoting cardiovascular health, supporting liver function, and possibly even exhibiting anti-cancer properties. Additionally, sesamin has been investigated for its ability to modulate lipid metabolism, potentially aiding in the management of cholesterol levels.
In traditional medicine, sesame seeds, and by extension sesamin, have been used for various purposes, including as a dietary supplement and as a culinary ingredient.