Constipation in the Elderly

by Michael
(Aventura, Florida, U.S.)

When using Black Sesame Seeds for the treatment of constipation is there any potential down side to simply putting the seeds through a coffee grinder and sprinkling the resulting powder on food (such as hot or cold cereal), i.e., without ever having either soaked or pan fried the seeds?

Thanks,
M.C.

Matthew's reply: Hi Michael, that should be fine. Black sesame seeds are a common Chinese medicine food remedy for constipation in the elderly (and others) as they lubricate dry intestines. Another way to take them is to crush about 25g (1oz) of seeds and mix them with a glass of hot water and drink each night before bed.

All the best,

Matthew