Description

WHITE SESAME (Sesamum indicum) is an ancient plant that originated in the Fertile Crescent over 4,000 years ago and cultivated ever since for its delicious seeds, and the oil pressed from them. It is also a nice garden decorative, with white flowers that attract bees and butterflies and produce the seed pods. Grown by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello in the 18th Century, our third President made it into salad oil. Also makes a wonderful after-dinner tea. Annual. 100 seeds.

GROWING TIPS: Sesame prefers a light soil with good tilth and drainage. Clay soil will produce poor results unless it is first amended. Lime if necessary to achieve a 7.0 pH. Direct sow when soil warms. Sesame can improve soil tilth because of its extensive root system and it is especially well-suited to organic gardens, as it is actually sensitive to chemicals in the soil, and may not germinate if there are remainders of pesticides, etc.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Sesame is extremely beneficial for your health, and claims include the ability to prevent diabetes, lower blood pressure, prevent a wide variety of cancers, build strong bones, protect against radiation, support heart health, cure insomnia, reduce inflammation, boost respiratory health, strengthen your oral health, improve digestion, aid in healthy growth, improve circulation, detoxify the body, and fight stress and depression. Pretty awesome, right? We encourage you to do your own research on these claims.