Mustard Seed

Mustard Different parts of the plant and its seeds may have been proven to be beneficial for a variety of health-related issues. This may include relief from muscle aches and pains to dermatitis, among others. Mustard seeds and leaves are likely to have heart In addition to improving health, it may also have been shown to have anti-diabetic properties. In folk medicine, the seeds are used mixed with a cooling agent. skin And hair It is considered beneficial for. Let's look at these benefits in detail.

What is Mustard?

Mustard, broccoli And cabbage It is a versatile cruciferous vegetable belonging to the Brassica family, resembling earliest grown The mustard plant has been grown quite popularly as a vegetable in North Africa, Asia and Europe for thousands of years; it was even popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans. 

Mustard is currently grown in more than 21 countries, with major production occurring in Europe, Nepal, Canada, Ukraine, and India. Due to its flavor and medicinal properties, the use of mustard is quite popular all over the world, with about 700 pounds consumed annually.

Mustard Varieties

Mustard, many different It is a versatile botanical with many varieties. Out of these varieties, three varieties – namely white mustard (Brassica alba), black mustard (Brassica nigra) and brown mustard (Brassica juncea) have gained more popularity than the others and are grown commercially and used for their young flower stalks, leaves and seeds.

• White mustard (sometimes referred to as yellow mustard) has a milder flavor and is normally used in the preparation of the famous American yellow mustard condiment.

• Black mustard is popular for its strong aroma and taste.

• Brown mustard, also used in the preparation of Dijon mustard, offers a sharp, tangy flavor.

Mustard seeds can be a rich source of essential oils, minerals and vitamins. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Mustard Nutritional Values

The mustard plant provides a wide range of beneficial components through its various edible parts. According to the USDA, mustard Seeds calcium , magnesium , phosphorus And potassium It can be a rich source of minerals such as . However, a good diet contains folate and Vitamin A could also be a source. 

Mustard greens or mustard plant leaves are probably an excellent source of minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. A healthy diet fiber In addition to its dose, it may also contain vitamins A, K and C, as well as folate (B9). 

Mustard oil is made from mustard seeds. tablespoon of mustard oil usually contains 124 calories; although it is high in calories, omega 3 fatty acids It is healthy for the heart due to its presence. 

Health Benefits of Mustard

In different parts of the mustard plant such as seeds, leaves and oil phenolic ingredients and other valuable nutrients can be present collectively and provide great health benefits with a unique taste. The effectiveness of mustard plant for therapeutic use is discussed below. Let's take a look at them in detail. 

May Relieve Psoriasis Symptoms

Tiny mustard seeds may be effective against psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder. A study conducted by a team of Chinese researchers study has shown the effectiveness of mustard seeds as a possible anti-inflammatory agent and as part of future psoriasis treatments. According to the research, the use of these seeds can also stimulate the activities of beneficial enzymes, which can help against the legions caused by psoriasis can promote the healing effect. 

May Provide Relief from Contact Dermatitis

Mustard seeds may provide therapeutic relief for contact dermatitis, a condition in which the skin develops an itchy rash when it comes into contact with an allergen. An animal study published in the Journal of Southern Medical University research suggested that consuming mustard seeds may help improve symptoms associated with contact dermatitis, such as tissue healing and reduced ear swelling. However, more studies are needed to determine its effectiveness in humans. 

May Improve Cardiovascular Health

Mustard seeds can be a rich source of antioxidants such as kaempferol, carotenoids, and isorhamnetin and other essential plant compounds that can help protect the body from all kinds of damage and disease. These flavonoids may also help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Mustard oil derived from these seeds is also known to be a healthier option for the heart than most other cooking oils. A randomized trial published in the Clinical Trials Journal study showed that when moderate amounts of mustard oil were given to patients with serious heart conditions, it could show positive results in terms of reduced heart arrhythmia rate, reduced ventricular dilation, and chest pain. 

The possible cardioprotective properties of mustard oil are probably due to the omega-3 fatty acids, among other beneficial components. to existence This initial research holds promise for future studies examining mustard seed and its cardiovascular effects. 

May Provide Relief in Respiratory Disorders

Mustard seeds have always been valued for their therapeutic effects against colds and sinus problems. It is considered a wonderful decongestant and expectorant that can help clear mucus from the air passages. It has been used for different home remedies It involved the use of mustard seeds or oil in treating a number of sinus-related ailments due to its heat-producing properties.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine research suggests that when ground mustard seeds are added to foot soak water, it can help relieve congestion in the respiratory tract. The book Herbal Simples Approved for Modern Therapeutic Uses states that when taken medicinally, an infusion of mustard seeds helps relieve symptoms of chronic bronchitis . Also made from mustard seeds tea It is stated that gargling with it relieves throat pain. 

Mustard oil and small amount of camphor during asthma attack Massaging with a mixture of herbs can break down phlegm and make breathing easier. Another article called Encyclopedia of Healing Foods in the book Since ancient times, plaster or plaster made from these seeds porridge It is claimed to be used to alleviate bronchitis and promote healthy blood circulation in the body. 

Can Treat Aches and Pains

A poultice or plaster made from mustard seeds can also help reduce pain and spasms. Mustard having reddening (redness-causing) properties and therefore may have analgesic effects when applied as a plaster And can relieve muscle pain. Another important advice to note here is that mustard plaster has hotter effects and can cause severe blisters when applied directly to bare skin. To prevent this, a linen sheet should be used between the skin and the plaster. 

Contains Antioxidants

Mustard is a good source of antioxidants, which are compounds that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Mustard oil contains a number of antioxidant compounds, including:

• Sinigrin: Sinigrin is a glucosinolate that is responsible for the sharp flavor of mustard. When sinigrin breaks down, it produces allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a powerful antioxidant. AITC has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. including has been shown to have various health benefits. [15]

• Vitamin E : Vitamin E, strong It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is an antioxidant. Its health benefits include preventing coronary heart disease and preventing eye disorders. 

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and improve heart health. including are essential fatty acids that have a number of health benefits. Mustard oil contains small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. 

It Can Provide Removal From Poison

In folk medicine, mustard seeds are believed to be able to counteract the effects of poison on the body. protective emetic properties It is thought that it may have . A decoction made from its seeds can help cleanse the body, especially if the poisoning is caused by narcotics or excessive alcohol intake. [

May Protect Against Bacterial and Fungal Infections

Research Studies shows that mustard and mustard products contain antioxidants that may protect against infections caused by various types of bacteria and fungi. Another study found that mustard, which contains the glucosinolates sinigrin and glucoraphanin, has antimicrobial properties against a range of clinically important bacteria and fungi, including antibiotic-resistant “priority pathogens.” 

However, more research is needed to confirm its protective properties.

Skin and Hair Care

Mustard seeds also serve as a great beauty aid. Sesame or in coconut oil Roasted mustard seeds enrich the obtained sifted oil and are an effective anti-acne agent for clearer skin. medicine may become . Aloe vera When mixed with its gel, it can act as an excellent moisturizing agent for the skin. It is also a rich source of antioxidants that slow down the aging process. 

Mustard oil is also good for hair. It is useful The oil obtained from the seeds is rich in Vitamin A and omega 3 fatty acids that are beneficial for hair growth, strength, and overall health. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support the benefits of mustard for hair and skin. Therefore, more research is needed. 

May Help Manage Diabetes

Mustard leaves diabetics It may be beneficial for . A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology study showed that mustard seed may be beneficial in reducing the damage caused by oxidative stress associated with this chronic disease. Another study published in the journal Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis in the study , in vivo application of mustard oil was studied and blood sugar levels more effectively than drug therapy alone. Glucose metabolism It can also help to stimulate. 

May Have Cholesterol-Lowering Ability

The leaves of the mustard plant may also have tremendous cholesterol-lowering power, according to a study published in Nutrition Research study , cruciferous vegetables , has shown that mustard greens in particular may have an incredible ability to bind bile acids in the digestive tract, facilitating their easy elimination from the body. Bile acids usually contain cholesterol, so ultimately the binding process is may help reduce cholesterol levels. 

Another noteworthy thing here real The steamed version of mustard greens may have better bile acid binding properties than the raw version, so lightly steam them and maybe lightly roast them. cumin , salt and add black pepper and enjoy.
These greens are a powerhouse of nutrients and are likely effective in reducing the development of blockages in the arteries, thereby reducing and hopefully helping to alleviate heart-related ailments. 

In these greens possible Vitamin B6 Its content can prevent platelets from clumping and reduce the risk of thrombosis. 

May Relieve Menopause Symptoms

Mustard greens can be valuable for women during menopause. Magnesium, along with calcium, commonly found in mustard greens, supports bone health and helps with menopause. related can prevent bone loss. It can help compensate for low magnesium content in bones and with a healthy diet in women with menopause osteoporosis can help reduce the risk. 

Culinary and Other Uses of Mustard

• Flavoring agent: Dried yellow mustard gives a pleasant taste when added as a spice to salad dishes, mayonnaise and sauces. Dried yellow mustard gives a pleasant taste when added as a spice to salad dishes, mayonnaise and sauces.

• Low-fat condiment: Mustard is a low-calorie alternative to high-fat condiments like mayonnaise. You can add mustard seeds to your daily diet in various ways. milk You can dip them and make a paste and use them in making curries and sauces. It will give a sharp taste to the food. You can also mix them into salad dressings or sprinkle them on hot dishes. Yellow mustard is also used in the preparation of condiments such as table mustard.

• A healthy addition to salads: You can consume mustard leaves raw or cooked and then add them to your diet in the form of soups, salads and stews.

• Cooking oil: Used as cooking oil for deep frying or pan frying vegetables. There are two types of mustard oil. One is a type prepared by pressing the seeds. It is vegetable oil.

• Essential oil: The other form of oil obtained from seeds is essential oil, which is obtained by grinding the seeds, combining them with water, and then extracting the oil through a distillation process.

• Emulsifier: Yellow mustard flour has excellent emulsifying and stabilizing qualities, making it perfect for the preparation of sausages.

• Preservative Properties: Mustard has been used since ancient times. apple slowing down the fermentation process while making wine and meat to prevent spoilage of products It is useful has been found. 

Our beef tenderloin recipe You should definitely try it. The taste of the soft fried food is enhanced with generous salt and pepper pickles and a bit of mustard. You should also try the excellent Mustard Zingy Keto Salad Dressing There is also !

How to Select and Store?

Mustard greens When choosing, pay attention to green leaves that are not darkened, clean, and free of brown spots. They can be stored in a plastic bag and kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They should be cleaned by placing them in warm water for a few minutes to settle the sand and dirt. Then rinse repeatedly until the water becomes clear. 

The seeds of the mustard plant are normally available in different forms, including:

• Whole dried seeds

• Dust

• Paste

• Oil

It is recommended to choose organically grown seeds to avoid the risk of radiation contamination. Powdered and whole form can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Powdered mustard can last up to six months, while whole form is good for up to a year. Oil and paste can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Side Effects of Mustard

When trying anything for the first time, especially allergenic ingredients  if it can contain, naturally carefully It is always recommended that you be . Some of the known side effects of mustard seeds are: 

• Skin Problems: Warming effect of mustard plants creation tends to be irritating, so caution should be exercised when using it on the skin or in contact with the eyes. Coconut oil or aloe vera gel It is always best to mix it with a cooling agent such as . However, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist before applying it to the skin. 

• Goitrogens: Uncooked mustard seeds and leaves contain substances called goitrogens, which can affect the thyroid gland. its functioning It contains a substance that can alter thyroid function. People who already suffer from thyroid disease should definitely cook mustard before consuming it to neutralize these components and should speak to a medical professional before consuming it. 

• Oxalates: Mustard contains oxalates, which are known to inhibit calcium absorption. Oxalate-related disorders such as kidney stones the one which... People should be careful about excessive consumption.

• Source : ashwini.singh Last updated by -February 26, 2024Vanessa Voltolina (MS, RD) Medically reviewed by ✓ Evidence Based