ASARININ, (+)- ((+)-episesamin), an abundant lignan in sesame seed, has been identified as an active principle in an aqueous extract of Lindera obtusiloba (Japanese Spicebush) with a strong anti-inflammatory potential. (+)-episesamin (ES) is known to block the TNF-α-induced mitogenic VSMC response. Protective effect of (+)-episesamin against PDGF-BB-induced activation of vascular smooth muscle cells is mediated by induction of haem oxygenase-1 and inhibition of mitogenic signalling. ES interferes with inflammation-associated VSMC activation and subsequent decreased proliferation and migration due to anti-oxidative properties and impaired activation of NF-ĸB, known contributors to atherogenesis. These results suggest ES as a complemental treatment of VSMC specific vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. (+)-Episesamin inhibits adipogenesis and exerts anti-inflammatory effects in 3T3-L1 (pre)adipocytes by sustained Wnt signaling, down-regulation of PPARγ and induction of iNOS. (+)-episesamin seems to be the active drug in the L. obtusiloba extract being responsible for the inhibition of adipogenesis and, thus, should be evaluated as a novel potential complementary treatment for obesity.