Recently, a message circulating on social media claimed that sesame oil can treat cuts, burns, eczema, and atopic dermatitis, and that applying it all over the body after a fever or flu infection can accelerate &ldquodetoxification.&rdquo In response, Taiwan&rsquos Ministry of Health and Welfare and multiple medical experts have clarified that such claims are exaggerated folk remedies with no scientific or medical basis &mdash and may delay proper treatment or even cause secondary harm.
Screenshot of a message circulating on a messaging app (Photo: Screenshot from Taiwan FactCheck Center website)
As early as 2018, Taiwan&rsquos Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public statement emphasizing that sesame oil is classified as a food, not a medicine, and cannot treat, alleviate symptoms, or prevent diseases. The belief that "sesame oil cures all ailments" has circulated for years but is not supported by scientific evidence.
Doctors acknowledge that while sesame oil is rich in nutrients and has moisturizing properties, which may provide some skin protection, the claim that it can &ldquodetoxify the body&rdquo reflects a misunderstanding of how the immune system and metabolism work. People experiencing skin inflammation or viral infections should seek proper medical care, as relying on unverified remedies may worsen infections or delay appropriate treatment.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) scholars noted that, under TCM theory, sesame oil is known to moisten dryness and reduce swelling. A well-known TCM ointment, Ziyun Gao (Purple Cloud Ointment), uses sesame oil as a base combined with herbs like Angelica sinensis and Lithospermum root, and is clinically used for mild burns. However, this formulation must be manufactured under strict quality control by licensed pharmaceutical companies &mdash ordinary edible sesame oil cannot replace medication.
Another rumor claims that burns should be treated with sesame oil instead of rinsing with cold water. Experts firmly refute this, warning that such actions trap heat in the tissues, potentially causing deeper skin damage and infections &mdash possibly leading to permanent scarring. The correct first-aid response to burns is to rinse immediately with cold water to lower tissue temperature, then seek medical attention.
Experts urge the public not to be misled by misinformation. While sesame oil is a healthy food ingredient, glorifying it as a &ldquocure-all&rdquo on the internet misleads the public and could lead individuals to trust unproven remedies, resulting in harm. When it comes to health information, people should rely on scientific evidence and avoid believing unverified claims that could delay proper treatment.
