Sesame Oil – Wood Pressed
Wood pressed sesame oil, also known as cold-pressed or chekku sesame oil, is a traditional and highly valued oil extracted from sesame seeds using a wooden press. This method preserves the natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional value of the seeds, offering a healthier and more sustainable alternative to refined oils. Revered in Ayurveda and culinary traditions across Asia and Africa, wood pressed sesame oil has gained global popularity for its multiple health benefits and versatility in cooking and skincare.
Traditional Extraction Process
The wood pressed method involves crushing sesame seeds slowly in a wooden ghani or chekku (press), which rotates at a low speed to ensure minimal heat generation. This process, unlike modern refining methods, does not involve high temperatures or chemical solvents, preserving the oil’s original nutrients. The oil is collected, filtered naturally, and bottled without additives, making it a pure and wholesome product.
Nutritional Value
Wood pressed sesame oil is packed with nutrients. It is a rich source of:
Unsaturated fatty acids – especially omega-6 and omega-9
Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant
Sesamin and sesamol – natural compounds with anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties
Lecithin – which supports brain and nervous system health
These components make the oil not only a cooking essential but also a health-enhancing supplement.
Health Benefits
Heart Health: The oil’s high content of polyunsaturated fats helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and promotes good cholesterol (HDL), supporting overall cardiovascular health.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: Sesamol and sesamin provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Skin and Hair Care: Wood pressed sesame oil has long been used in Ayurvedic skin and hair treatments. It moisturizes dry skin, delays signs of aging, and strengthens hair roots, promoting thicker, shinier hair.
Improved Digestion: Regular use of sesame oil in cooking can stimulate better digestion and absorption of nutrients due to its natural laxative properties.
Bone Health: The oil is rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and zinc, all of which are essential for maintaining strong bones.
Culinary Uses
Wood pressed sesame oil has a nutty, earthy flavor that enhances many dishes. It is widely used in South Indian cooking for tempering curries, dosa, and chutneys. In East Asian cuisine, it adds depth to stir-fries, salads, and marinades. Due to its rich flavor, only a small quantity is needed to elevate a dish.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Wood pressing is a sustainable method with minimal carbon footprint. The slow, mechanical process consumes less energy and produces no harmful waste. By choosing wood pressed sesame oil, consumers support traditional agriculture and environmentally responsible production.