The Pedaliaceae family is a group of flowering plants in the order Lamiales, comprising approximately 15 genera and around 70 species. This family is predominantly found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Madagascar. The most notable member of the Pedaliaceae family is the genus Sesamum, which includes the sesame plant (Sesamum indicum), one of the oldest cultivated oilseed crops.

General Description

The plants in the Pedaliaceae family exhibit several common features:

• Leaves: The leaves are typically opposite, simple, and may be either entire or lobed, depending on the species. They are usually large, with a rough texture, and are often hairy or glandular.
• Flowers: Flowers in the Pedaliaceae family are usually bisexual and showy, with five petals that are often fused at the base to form a tubular or funnel-shaped corolla. The flowers are typically large and colorful, often with purple, white, or yellow hues.
• Fruits: The fruits of Pedaliaceae species are typically capsules, containing many seeds. The seeds are often small and can vary in shape, color, and texture depending on the species.
• Stems and Roots: Many species in this family are herbaceous or woody, with some, like Sesamum, growing as annual plants. The root systems can vary, with some species having deep taproots.

Chemical Composition

The Pedaliaceae family contains a variety of bioactive compounds, especially in the seeds of Sesamum species:

• Sesamin: Sesamin is a lignan found in sesame seeds, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also associated with reducing cholesterol levels and supporting cardiovascular health.
• Oil: Sesame seeds are rich in oil, which contains a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, and beneficial antioxidants such as sesamol and vitamin E.
• Proteins: Sesame seeds are a good source of plant-based proteins, containing essential amino acids that are important for overall health.
• Phytosterols: Phytosterols in sesame oil can help reduce cholesterol levels and contribute to heart health.

Physical Properties

The Pedaliaceae family is characterized by certain physical traits:

• Flowers: The flowers are often large, tubular or funnel-shaped, and brightly colored. They typically have five petals that are fused at the base and may have distinctive markings or structures to attract pollinators.
• Seeds: The seeds of Pedaliaceae species are usually small and vary greatly in size, shape, and color depending on the species. The seeds of Sesamum are often pale to dark brown, or white, and are known for their oil content.
• Stem and Growth Habit: The plants in this family can be either herbaceous or woody, with some species growing as shrubs or small trees. Sesamum, for example, is an herbaceous annual, while other species in the family can be woody and perennial.

Production and Harvesting

The most commercially significant member of the Pedaliaceae family is Sesamum (sesame), which is grown for its seeds and oil:

• Sesame (Sesamum indicum): Sesame is cultivated extensively for its seeds, which are used in cooking, baking, and in the production of sesame oil. The seeds are harvested once the capsules ripen and dry. The oil extracted from sesame seeds is used in cooking and cosmetics, as well as in traditional medicine.
• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is widely used for cooking, particularly in Asian cuisine, and for its health benefits, including its high content of unsaturated fats and antioxidants. It is also used in cosmetics for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties.

Applications

Medicinal

Many species of Pedaliaceae, particularly Sesamum, have medicinal uses:

• Sesame (Sesamum indicum): Sesame seeds and oil are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including inflammation, arthritis, and skin conditions. Sesame oil is also believed to have a protective effect on the liver and to support cardiovascular health.
• Antioxidant Properties: The lignans, sesamin, and sesamol in sesame oil are potent antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
• Anti-inflammatory: Sesame oil is used to reduce inflammation and to soothe conditions like joint pain and skin irritation.

Culinary

Sesame seeds are widely used in cooking and baking:

• Sesame (Sesamum indicum): Sesame seeds are used in many cuisines, from sprinkling on bread and baked goods to adding flavor to salads, soups, and stir-fries. They are also used to make tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds that is a key ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil is commonly used in cooking, especially in Asian dishes. It has a mild, nutty flavor and is used for sautéing, frying, and dressing salads.

Cosmetic

Sesame oil is widely used in the cosmetic industry for its nourishing and moisturizing properties:

• Skin Care: Sesame oil is often used in lotions, creams, and soaps for its ability to moisturize and protect the skin. It is also believed to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to its antioxidant content.
• Hair Care: Sesame oil is used in hair care products for its ability to nourish the scalp, promote hair growth, and improve hair strength and shine.

Environmental

The Pedaliaceae family, particularly sesame plants, also has ecological importance:

• Soil Health: Sesame plants help improve soil structure and fertility due to their root systems, which can break up compacted soil. This makes them useful in crop rotation systems.
• Biodiversity: Sesame cultivation supports a range of pollinators, including bees, due to its large, showy flowers. Additionally, some Pedaliaceae species play a role in forest ecosystems as shrubs and small trees that provide habitat and food for wildlife.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While Pedaliaceae plants provide numerous benefits, there are a few considerations:

• Sustainability: The large-scale cultivation of Sesamum requires sustainable agricultural practices to avoid overuse of soil nutrients and to ensure the health of the ecosystem. It is important to practice crop rotation and soil conservation to maintain sustainability.
• Allergic Reactions: Sesame seeds and sesame oil may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to check for sensitivities before consumption or application in cosmetics.

INCI Functions

• Antioxidant: Protects the skin from oxidative damage.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin.
• Moisturizing: Helps to hydrate and retain moisture in the skin.
• Nourishing: Provides essential nutrients to the skin and hair.

Conclusion

The Pedaliaceae family is a significant group of plants, with Sesamum (sesame) being the most important species due to its oil-rich seeds and various uses in medicine, food, and cosmetics. Sesame oil and seeds are prized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-nourishing properties. Additionally, Pedaliaceae species play an important role in agriculture and the environment.