Condition
Treatment Support
rubefacient
Application
plaster
Mustard
(Brassica nigra)
Also know as Black mustard
Botanical Information
A common, highly-branched annual from the Mustard family with yellow flowers.
Working with Mustard
Part(s) Used
Seeds
Herb Forms
Essential oil, bulk seed, ready-made plasters
Christopher Hobbs:
“Mustard seed is mainly used medicinally in plaster form for bronchitis, rheumatism, and lumbago. It is sometimes added to a bath or used in foot baths for colds and flu. Internally, a decoction of mustard seeds is taken for lung problems, such as coughs and excess phlegm, and to warm and improve the digestion. Commercially made mustard plasters are sometimes available in drugstores and herb shops or natural food stores.
Mustard has a taste of SPICY and a temperature of HOT.”
Historical Uses
Mustard, derived from the seeds of Brassica or Sinapis species, has been used for thousands of years as a spice, condiment, and medicinal remedy. Historically, mustard was used in poultices to relieve pain and inflammation, as a digestive stimulant, and as an emetic in higher doses. In traditional medicine, it was employed for treating colds, coughs, rheumatism, and as a counterirritant.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths
Today, herbalists and naturopaths use mustard for:
- Topical Applications: Mustard plasters are still used to alleviate chest congestion and muscle pain.
- Digestive Support: Mustard seeds are recommended to stimulate digestion and improve appetite.
- Circulation: Mustard is believed to improve circulation, particularly when used in foot baths for cold extremities.
- Antimicrobial Effects: The essential oils in mustard have mild antimicrobial properties.
Chemistry
Mustard seeds contain:
- Glucosinolates: Precursors to isothiocyanates (notably allyl isothiocyanate), which are responsible for mustard’s pungency and pharmacological effects.
- Fixed Oils: Provide nutritional and moisturizing benefits.
- Proteins: Constituting about 28%–36% of the seed composition.
- Other Compounds: Including phenolics and flavonoids that contribute to antioxidant properties.
Pharmacology
- Anti-inflammatory: Isothiocyanates suppress pro-inflammatory markers, showing promise in conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant: Mustard extracts neutralize free radicals, potentially protecting against oxidative stress.
- Antimicrobial: Allyl isothiocyanate exhibits activity against certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
- Digestive Stimulant: Activates salivary glands and gastric secretions to enhance digestion.
- Circulatory Effects: Topical application promotes blood flow and warmth, useful for muscle stiffness.
Clinical Trials
- Pain Relief: Small-scale studies suggest mustard plasters provide temporary relief for musculoskeletal pain and stiffness.
- Circulation: Preliminary evidence supports improved circulation in peripheral regions, though high-quality clinical trials are lacking.
- Antimicrobial Effects: Laboratory studies confirm antimicrobial activity, but its efficacy in clinical settings is yet to be firmly established.
Summary
Mustard has a long history of medicinal use, primarily as a topical counterirritant and digestive aid. Its active compounds, particularly allyl isothiocyanate, show promise for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and circulatory benefits. However, most clinical evidence is limited, and further research is necessary to validate its therapeutic applications. Mustard remains a valuable component in traditional and complementary medicine when used judiciously.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Topical Use: Can cause skin irritation or burns if applied excessively. Dilution and short application times are essential.
Ingestion: Generally safe in culinary amounts, but high doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation or adverse effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Should be used with caution, particularly in medicinal amounts.
Allergic Reactions: Rare but possible; caution for those with mustard seed allergies.
Topical Use: Mustard plaster is made using 1 part mustard powder mixed with 2-3 parts flour, combined with water to form a paste. It is applied to the affected area for 10-15 minutes.
Ingestion: Culinary doses are safe, but herbalists may recommend small doses of ground seeds (250–500 mg) for digestive support.
Do not use for longer than two weeks. Do not use externally for children under six years of age. Mustard plasters that are left on the skin for too long can cause deep burns. Don’t fall asleep with the plaster on and make sure someone is monitoring the time (not longer than 15 minutes).
Conditions treated with Mustard
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
warming digestive stimulant, appetizer
Application
tea, tincture, seeds in food
Condition
Treatment Support
expectorant
Application
tea
Condition
Treatment Support
rubefacient
Application
plaster
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
