Black mustard seeds are challenging to see just by looking at them, but they are an excellent example of the power of small things when we let them develop.
- Certified USDA Organic Black Mustard Seeds
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Black Mustard Scientific Facts
- Scientific name: Brassica nigra (L.) Koch.
- Scientific synonyms: Brassica juncea Sickenb., Sinapsis nigra L.
- Other names: Mustard.
- French: Moutarde noire.
- Spanish: Mostaza Negra.
- Environment: It grows wild on unfarmed lands all over Europe and is naturalized to America.
- Description: This annual plant of the Cruciferae family grows from 0.2 to 1 m high. Its yellow flowers gather in terminal clusters, and the round seeds are 1 mm in diameter.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The seeds.
Black Mustard Healing Properties
The entire plant contains a glycoside (sinigrin), which, using an enzyme, micronase, becomes an essential sulfur oil with revulsive solid properties. Its seeds also contain mucilage with emollient (soothing) properties.
Mustard flour is mainly used in external applications. As a revulsive substance, it attracts blood towards the skin, thus reducing the congestion of internal organs and tissues. When utilized in poultices, it effectively treats rheumatism, sciatic, neuralgia, lung congestion, and acute bronchitis.
Foot baths with mustard flour are a remedy that has been used for a very long time with two main applications:
- Headaches—Foot baths alleviate headaches by attracting blood to the feet and reducing congestion in the head. They are especially recommended for cephalalgia caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory airways (nasal catarrh, sinusitis, influenza) or high blood pressure.
- High blood pressure: Mustard produces peripheral vasodilation (dilating small arteries on the extremities), which decreases blood pressure.
Traditional foot baths with mustard flour are still highly desirable because they are effective for headaches, primarily when colds, influenza, and sinusitis cause them. Foot baths are also helpful for high blood pressure.
Warning
Mustard is an irritant seasoning that should be avoided orally. People suffering from dyspepsia or gastro-duodenal ulcers should completely abstain from mustard.
Other Mustard Species
Besides black mustard, there are two other species.
- White mustard (Sinapsis alba L.), which produces more giant, whitish seeds, makes edible mustard (seasoning).
- Wild mustard (Brassica kaber Wheeler = Brassica arvensis Rabenh. = Sinapsis arvensis L.) has tiny seeds.
Though less intense, both mustard species have similar properties to black mustard.
How to use Black Mustard
- Poultices—Mustard flour is applied as hot poultices and mixed with linseed flour to be less irritant. These poultices are applied twice daily for 10 to 15 minutes (a prolonged application can produce blisters). Mustard poultices are called sinapisms (a word from the Greek synapsis mustard: see one of its scientific names).
- Foot baths: Dissolve 1 to 2 spoonfuls of mustard flour in 2 to 3 liters of hot water. Take 2 to 3 baths daily, for 5 to 10 minutes each.
Frequently Asked Question
Besides the seeds, are other parts of the black mustard plant beneficial?
Absolutely! Mustard greens, the leafy part of the plant, are a treasure trove of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. They boast high vitamin K levels, essential for bone health and blood clotting.
Can black mustard help with heart health?
Vitamin K and potentially cholesterol-lowering effects make black mustard greens a heart-healthy choice, especially when cooked.
Are mustard plasters, made from black mustard seeds, effective for pain relief?
The jury’s still out. Black mustard contains compounds with potentially pain-reducing properties, but research lacks. Mustard plasters can also be irritating to the skin.
Can the plant help with respiratory issues?
The oil might have properties that help loosen mucus and ease congestion, but more scientific evidence is needed.
Is the plant a good source of antioxidants?
Yes! Mustard seeds and greens are rich in antioxidants like carotene, lutein, and vitamin C, all essential for fighting cell damage.
Can black mustard benefit eye health?
The antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin found in mustard greens may protect your retina from damage and lower the probability of getting age-related macular degeneration.
Does the plant have any uses beyond food and medicine?
Black mustard seeds have industrial uses, too! The oil taken from the seeds can be used in biofuels and lubricants.
Are there any safety considerations when consuming black mustard?
Black mustard seeds and oil can irritate the skin and mucous membranes if used in high amounts. Consult a healthcare professional before using black mustard for medicinal purposes, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can it interact with medications?
The plant might lower blood sugar levels. If you have type 2 diabetes and take medications to control it, speak to your doctor before consuming black mustard.
How can I incorporate black mustard into my diet?
Enjoy the peppery kick of mustard greens steamed in stir-fries, salads, or as a side dish. Black mustard seeds, used whole or ground, add a spicy depth to curries, pickles, and marinades.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000.663, 664. Print.
- Health Benefits: https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/mustard/353512
- BLACK MUSTARD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-590/black-mustard
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API