If you’re like me — always on the lookout for natural ways to keep your hair healthy and thick — you’ve probably heard that black sesame seeds are the secret to strong, shiny hair. But is there any truth to this age-old belief? Let’s dive in!

Why Black Sesame Has Earned Its Superfood Status

Black sesame seeds have been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to nourish the liver and kidneys — two organs believed to be closely linked to hair health. But beyond ancient wisdom, black sesame is packed with nutrients that offer real health benefits:

Rich in Healthy Fats – Contains heart-friendly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help nourish cells, including those in the scalp.

High in Protein – Essential for the building blocks of hair.

Loaded with Antioxidants – Black sesame is particularly high in sesamin and sesamol, which help fight free radicals that cause aging, including hair graying and hair thinning.

Abundant in Minerals – Black sesame seeds are a great source of:

• Calcium – Supports healthy scalp circulation.

• Iron – Helps prevent hair shedding related to iron deficiency.

• Zinc – Crucial for tissue growth and repair, including hair follicles.

• Magnesium – Supports the scalp and hair roots.

So, Can Black Sesame Really Help With Hair Growth?

While black sesame seeds are often praised for promoting hair health, it’s important to manage expectations.

What black sesame can do:
The nutrients in black sesame — especially the combination of healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals — can help create an internal environment that supports healthier, shinier, and stronger hair. If your hair is thinning due to nutritional deficiencies, adding black sesame to your diet could definitely help.

What black sesame can’t do:
If your hair loss is due to genetics (such as androgenetic alopecia) or underlying medical conditions, black sesame alone likely won’t stop the shedding or regrow lost hair. In these cases, professional advice and treatment will be more effective.

The Bottom Line

Black sesame seeds are more than just a delicious topping for desserts or a tasty spread (like my favorite roasted black sesame spread!). They’re a nutrient powerhouse that can certainly support hair health, and when combined with a well-balanced diet, they might help reduce hair fall and promote thicker, healthier growth over time.

But as with most natural remedies, consistency is key, and results don’t happen overnight. You also need to pair it with good hair care, enough sleep, stress management, and the right nutrition.