Sesame

Sesame in Ancient Egypt


 * Egyptian Name:**

//Ake// or //Ikw//

//Neheh// (oil)

Next to linseed and olive oil, sesame oil was the most heavily-used oil in ancient Egypt. Introduced to Egypt from Palestine during Dynasty XIX, sesame oil was used in making unguents, and also as lamp oil. Pyramid workers received sesame oil as a part of their diet, and medical papyri mention the oil, paste, and seeds. The seeds were also baked into bread. Sesame seeds were found in the tomb of Tutankhamen.

The Fiber and Oil Plants of Ancient Egypt

Seasonings and Spices