Post-Bloodletting Care – Sesame oil Zhī Má Yóu [芝麻油]

Sesame oil (Zhī Má Yóu [芝麻油]), extracted from Sesamum indicum seeds, is a revered substance in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been used to nourish the body, lubricate the bowels, and heal the skin. One of its lesser-known but highly valued applications is after bloodletting treatments, where it helps restore balance and support tissue repair.
This article explores the traditional TCM view of sesame oil, its role post-bloodletting, and modern biomedical perspectives supporting its use.

In TCM, the Qi or energetic nature of sesame oil is considered neutral to slightly warm. This means it:

• Balances cold and heat conditions, making it broadly suitable for different constitutions.
• Gently supports Yang without aggravating Heat.
• Is safe for chronic use, especially for people with Yin deficiency or elderly patients.

The sweet flavor is associated with:

• Harmonizing effects, calming internal agitation.
• Tonifying and nourishing properties that replenish Qi and Blood.
• Soothing the digestive system and reducing spasms or pain.

Sesame oil influences several core organ systems:

• Live: Nourishes Blood and Yin, supporting hair, nails, and emotional balance.
• Kidney: Strengthens Essence (Jing), supports bone marrow and brain function.
• Large Intestine: Moistens dryness and promotes smooth bowel movement, especially in dry-type constipation.

• Nourishes Yin and Blood: Used for dryness, fatigue, dizziness, tinnitus, and premature graying—signs of Blood and Yin deficiency.
• Moistens the Intestines: Effectively treats constipation due to dryness, particularly in the elderly or postpartum women.
• Supports Jing (Essence): Helps prevent premature aging and decline in vitality.
• Soothes and Heals the Skin: Applied topically, it calms inflammation, promotes healing, and protects from external invasion (Wind, Cold, or Heat).

In TCM, bloodletting is used to:

• Disperse stagnation,
• Release Heat,
• Eliminate toxins,
• Restore the free flow of Qi and Blood.

However, this technique can temporarily weaken the local area, especially with repeated treatments.

Sesame oil is applied afterward to:

• Moisturize and soften the skin, preventing cracks, dryness, or scarring.
• Nourish Blood and Yin, replenishing what was lost during bloodletting.
• Harmonize the Luo vessels and meridians, soothing the energetic channels.
• Prevent infection, acting as a protective layer against pathogens.

It is particularly favored in folk traditions and Master Tung’s acupuncture for patients who receive frequent bloodletting on the same areas (e.g., fingertips, back of the neck).

Use cold-pressed, unrefined sesame oil (often labeled as virgin or raw sesame oil). You can often find this in health food stores or Ayurvedic shops. It retains the full profile of beneficial compounds like sesamin, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids.

Sesame oil contains sesamin, sesamol, and sesamolin, which demonstrate antimicrobial activity:

• Inhibits common pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli).
• Reduces risk of infection in open or punctured skin.
• Safe and well-tolerated on skin, even with minor abrasions.

Studies show sesame oil reduces the production of interleukin-1 and interleukin-6, key mediators in inflammation.

• Helps reduce redness, pain, and swelling post-treatment.
• Calms overactive immune response in sensitized skin.

In both animal and human studies:

• Sesame oil accelerates re-epithelialization, the process of skin cell regeneration.
• Promotes collagen synthesis and microcirculation, helping wounds close faster.
• Effective even in second-degree burn recovery.

High in oleic and linoleic acid, sesame oil:

• Restores the lipid barrier of the skin.
• Prevents transepidermal water loss.
• Aids in recovery from dryness and irritation caused by repeated needle punctures or lancing.

Rich in Vitamin E and polyphenols, sesame oil protects the skin from:

• Oxidative stress caused by environmental exposure or repeated skin trauma.
• Aging-related deterioration, making it ideal for older patients or those with weak skin resilience.

Integrating East and West: A Holistic Perspective

Sesame oil’s role after bloodletting demonstrates the synergy between ancient tradition and modern science.
In TCM, it is valued for its ability to restore harmony to Qi, Blood, and Yin. From a Western viewpoint, its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties justify its use in clinical settings.

Its safety, affordability, and wide accessibility make it a practical post-treatment solution in both clinical acupuncture and home care environments.