Sesamum indicum (Black Sesame Seeds, Kala Til) Seeds
Sesamum indicum, commonly known as Black Sesame or Kala Til, is a highly nutritious oilseed crop prized for its rich nutty flavor, high oil content, and health benefits. Native to India and Africa, Black Sesame is widely cultivated for its culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. Known for its robust flavor and vibrant black color, it is a staple in many traditional dishes and herbal remedies.
Characteristics Black Sesame plants are hardy annuals that grow up to 1–2 meters in height. The plants feature lance-shaped green leaves and tubular white or pale pink flowers, which develop into elongated capsules containing numerous small, oval black seeds. These seeds are highly aromatic and rich in oils, making them a preferred choice for culinary and industrial applications.
Uses and Benefits • Culinary Applications: Black Sesame is used in a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Asian, and Middle Eastern dishes. It is commonly added to desserts, savory recipes, and as a garnish for salads, bread, and sushi. The seeds are also pressed to extract sesame oil, known for its rich flavor and health benefits. • Nutritional Value: Rich in protein, healthy fats, calcium, iron, and antioxidants. Black Sesame supports bone health, boosts immunity, and promotes healthy skin and hair. • Medicinal Properties: Used in Ayurveda and traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and rejuvenating properties. • Cosmetic Uses: Sesame oil is a key ingredient in skincare products due to its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. • Soil Improvement: The crop is drought-tolerant and suitable for improving soil health in crop rotation systems.
Cultivation Black Sesame is a hardy crop that thrives in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates. • Soil Preparation: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils with a pH of 5.5–7.0. Enrich the soil with organic compost or manure before planting. • Sowing: Sow seeds directly into the soil at a depth of 1–2 cm, spacing them 20–30 cm apart in rows 30–45 cm apart. Ensure the soil is warm, as sesame seeds require a temperature of 25–30°C for optimal germination. • Germination: Seeds germinate within 5–7 days under favorable conditions. • Growth Conditions: Requires full sun and minimal watering. Sesame is drought-tolerant but benefits from moderate moisture during flowering and seed development. • Harvesting: Seeds mature within 90–120 days. Harvest when the capsules turn brown and dry but before they split open. Allow pods to dry further before extracting the seeds.
Unique Features Black Sesame seeds are prized for their bold flavor, rich oil content, and extensive health benefits. Their drought-tolerance and adaptability to various soil conditions make them an excellent crop for sustainable farming.
Growing Tips Rotate sesame with other crops to improve soil fertility. Avoid overwatering, as sesame prefers dry conditions. Protect the crop from strong winds during flowering and seed setting.
Shipping Available for shipping within India and worldwide. Orders are typically dispatched within 1–2 weeks.