Charaka includes sesame among the pulses. It was the only oil-seed used in the Vedic era by the Aryans, and a lump of sesame was found at Harappa. It is sweet, bitter, astringent and hot, and exerts a sweet effect after digestion. Being oily and heavy, it promotes pitta and kapha while it relieves vata. It is especially good as a tonic for the skin and hair. The seeds, which have been used to produce abortion, can be crushed and made into a poultice for ulcers, and the black seeds are rejuvenators for hair and bones. Sesame oil is used as the base for most Ayurvedic medicated oils.
References:
Ayurveda Life Health and Longevity by Robert E. Svoboda - Penguin Books.
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