Certain compounds from sesame seeds can act like estrogen in breast cancer cells grown in a dish. This effect is stopped by a drug that blocks estrogen receptors, showing these compounds work through those receptors.

Based on the evidence we have reviewed so far, the answer leans toward yes: certain compounds from sesame seeds appear to activate estrogen receptors in human breast cancer cells grown in a dish. Our analysis of one key claim, supported by four studies with none refuting it, indicates that these sesame-derived compounds can act like estrogen in this setting [1]. Importantly, the effect is stopped when a drug that blocks estrogen receptors is added, which suggests that the compounds work specifically through those receptors [1]. We want to be clear that this is what our current analysis shows, and it comes from laboratory studies using cells in a dish—not from human trials. The evidence we have is limited to this specific context, and we have not yet reviewed studies that look at whole sesame seeds or their effects in living animals or people. So while the direction of the evidence is consistent, we cannot say that sesame lignans definitively activate estrogen receptors in the human body. Our findings are a snapshot of the research we have examined so far. For practical purposes, if you are someone who needs to avoid estrogen-like compounds—for example, due to a hormone-sensitive condition—this information is worth noting. However, because the evidence comes from cell studies, it is not a reason to avoid sesame seeds entirely. As always, we recommend discussing dietary choices with a healthcare provider who knows your full health history.