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Photograph of Sesamum indicum L. (Black Sesame)
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Black Sesame

흑임자 (胡麻) · Sesamum indicum L.
Qi and marrow tonifying herb Neutral Sweet Liver, Kidney, Large Intestine
NatureNeutral
TasteSweet
MeridiansLiver, Kidney, Large Intestine
Part usedSeed
FamilyPedaliaceae
CategoryQi and marrow tonifying herb
Find by concern: Fatigue

Overview

Black sesame's Chinese name, "barbarian hemp," and its other name, "great victor," both come straight from the Donguibogam: it was said to resemble hemp in form and to have entered from foreign lands, while being ranked the greatest of the eight grains for its tonic power.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑
性平, 味甘, 無毒. 益氣力, 長肌肉, 塡髓腦, 堅筋骨, 潤五藏.
Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)
TranslationIts nature is neutral, its taste sweet, and it is non-toxic. It boosts qi-strength, builds muscle, fills the marrow and brain, firms the sinews and bones, and moistens the five viscera.

Traditional uses recorded in the Donguibogam

  • Tonifies qi and strength
  • Fills the marrow and brain
  • Strengthens sinews and bones
  • Moistens the five viscera

Traditional applications recorded in the classical text

  • General weakness and fatigue
  • Premature aging concerns
  • Dry skin or dry constipation
  • Weak sinews and bones

Traditional preparation

Eaten regularly as food, or prepared as a nine-times steamed and dried tonic per traditional practice.

This describes traditional preparation recorded in the classics, not a recommendation for use today. DonguiHub does not provide dosage guidance — consult a qualified professional before using any herb.

Cautions

Caution: Traditionally steamed and sun-dried nine times before long-term use; a rich, oily food best used in moderation. Consult a professional for medicinal amounts.
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Frequently asked questions

Why is black sesame called "barbarian hemp" (胡麻)?

The Donguibogam explains it resembled hemp in form and was believed to have entered from foreign lands, giving rise to this name.

What does "great victor" (巨勝) mean?

The Donguibogam records this alternate name comes from black sesame being ranked the greatest of the eight staple grains for its tonic power.

Sources