Sesame seeds are considered to have a warm potency according to traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda.
Understanding Sesame Seed Potency
The concept of "hot" and "cold" in this context doesn't refer to the physical temperature of the sesame seed. Instead, it describes how the food is believed to affect the body's internal energy and temperature.
Ayurvedic Perspective
- According to Ayurveda, sesame seeds have a warm energetic effect on the body.
- Consuming them is thought to generate heat, which can be particularly beneficial during cold weather.
- This warming quality is why sesame seeds are commonly included in winter dishes and remedies.
Practical Applications
- Winter Foods: Sesame seeds are often added to dishes during colder months to help the body stay warm.
- Oils: Sesame oil, likewise, is considered warming and used for massages and cooking.
- Traditional Remedies: In Ayurveda, sesame seeds are used to make remedies intended to address imbalances related to cold.
The Difference Between Temperature and Potency
It's crucial to distinguish between the physical temperature of food and its energetic or "potency" as understood by traditional medicine:
- Physical Temperature: Refers to how hot or cold something is to the touch.
- Potency: Refers to how a food affects the body's energy and internal temperature based on concepts in systems like Ayurveda.
Conclusion
Based on traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, sesame seeds are considered to have a warming potency, not a physical hot temperature.
