Sesame seed extract, a dietary supplement of concentrated sesame plant compounds, is used for blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Small, short trials suggest slightly lower blood pressure and harmful cholesterol, better blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes and less rheumatoid arthritis joint pain; some found no effect; those with already-healthy levels may gain little. Longevity appeal rests on worm and fly studies. Sesame allergy is the main risk. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Home blood pressure | No established target; track change from own pre-supplement average | Expected to change; safety check with antihypertensives |
| LDL cholesterol (with total cholesterol and triglycerides) | No established target; track change from own baseline | Expected to change |
| HbA1c (with fasting glucose) | 4.0–5.6% (standard reference range) | Expected to change in diabetes; safety check with glucose-lowering drugs |
| ALT (with AST) | About 7–55 U/L (varies by laboratory) | Safety check: a sustained rise stops use |
| INR (warfarin users only) | No established target for supplement use; track against the prescriber's therapeutic range | Safety check: a rise prompts stopping and prescriber review |
Cadence: Baseline before starting; blood pressure weekly for the first month, then monthly; lipids, HbA1c and ALT at 8–12 weeks, then every 6–12 months while continuing; INR 1–2 weeks after starting or stopping (warfarin users)