Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a form of degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease localized in the knee that can cause a variety of symptoms such as abnormal bone growth, pain, loss of motion, swelling and disfigured cartilage. Scientists compared another plant to a commonly prescribed painkiller. This time, sesame seeds were studied alongside Tylenol.
Tylenol is a commonly used over – the – counter pain killer. Another trade name for it is Panadol. The nonproprietary name used in the US is acetaminophen, while the name paracetamol is used elsewhere in the world. In some case, it is classified as a mild analgesic, but even small doses can cause death. Other adverse effects have been recorded, ranging from asthma to liver damage. It is important to note the drug’s potential toxicity, even though the side effects usually occur whenever the recommended dose is exceeded.
Sesame is believed to be one of the planet’s oldest cultivated plants. It has been used for over 5,000 years to produce nutritious and flavorful oils and it was mentioned by the Ancient Egyptians as a powerful medicinal plant. They come in a host of different colors, depending upon the variety, including black, red, white and yellow.
Knee Osteoarthritis and Sesame – The Research
A research group from Tabriz University in Iran decided to study sesame’s (Sesamum indicum L.) effect on the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, which include loss of motion, pain, changes and swelling in joint shape.
Fifty patients were included in the study and divided into two groups. The control group received standard therapy, which involved 500 milligrams of Tylenol twice a day along with 500 milligrams of glucosamine once a day (Glucosamine is one of the natural remedies for a arthritis). 25 patients in the sesame group received 40 grams of sesame seeds daily together with the standard drug therapy.
The Results Of The Study
The study lasted for 2 months and the 2 groups were then compared in their pain sensitivity. Compared to their counterparts in the control group, the patients receiving sesame had significantly less pain. A questionnaire and the Timed Up and Go test (a simple test used to check a person’s mobility and requires both dynamic and static balance) were also used for assessment, but the two groups didn’t differ significantly on those measurements.
The Conclusion
The International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases, in October 2013, published the results of the study. The authors suggested that sesame seeds might be a viable adjunctive therapy for knee OA, even though this was a small study.
I want to highlight the fact that according to the study sesame seeds can greatly enhance the benefits of using prescription medications but the study didn’t test a complete replacement of OA medications with sesame seeds. The results are still encouraging as by consuming sesame seeds, you can greatly enhance the benefits of prescription medications.
How Much is 40 Grams of Sesame Seeds?
One tablespoon of sesame seeds is about 9 grams, so approximately 4 tablespoons a day equals the dose used in the study. In order to aid absorption the researchers powdered the sesame seeds.
For best therapeutic benefits, you should buy sesame seeds that are organic and raw. Ground your fresh sesame with a coffee grinder or a pestle and mortar and then enjoy the multiple positive effects that include benefits to your circulation and heart, mood improvement and cancer prevention.
Source: www.healthyandnaturalworld.com
