Elderly Constipation and Black Sesame Seeds

by Michael
(Aventura, FL, USA)

Greetings Matthew,

This is a follow-up to a previous question I asked you regarding the use of black sesame seeds as a laxative for the elderly. (Thanks for your previous response).

I am wondering if the typical Black Sesame Seeds that one finds in Asian grocery stores - which are invariably toasted sesame seeds - can be utilized in the remedies treating constipation, or is it necessary to obtain Raw Black Sesame Seeds for that particular purpose? If it is necessary to use Raw Black Sesame Seeds, is it likely that a Chinese herbalist/Pharmacy would carry them?


I look forward to your response.


Thank you,

M.C.

Matthew's reply: Hi Michael, I've seen recipes for constipation using raw black sesame seeds AND roasted black sesame seeds. Possibly eating roasted seeds makes them more palatable for some people.

If you have a Chinese herbalist or pharmacy nearby I would pop in and ask someone directly. We are all different in our needs so it's not always easy to give specific advice via the Net.

Yes, a Chinese herbalist may have black sesame seeds as they are used in some Chinese herbal prescriptions. Health food stores may also be an option.

Using raw seeds for constipation makes sense to me. Black sesame seeds contain many nutrients which could easily be lost if roasted for too long.

Hope this helps.

All the best,

Matthew