What Is Mustard

Mustard oil, which is produced from the seeds of the mustard plant, is a common ingredient in Indian cuisine. Known for its strong flavor, pungent aroma, and high smoke point, it’s often used for sautéing and stir-frying vegetables in many parts of the world, including India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Although pure mustard oil is banned for use as a vegetable oil in the United States, Canada, and Europe, it’s often applied topically and used as a massage oil, skin serum, and hair treatment

How to Use

Mustard essential oil, a type of essential oil produced from mustard seeds using a steam distillation process, is also available and approved for use as a flavoring agent.

1. May block microbial growth

Some studies have found that mustard essential oil possesses powerful antimicrobial properties and may help block the growth of certain types of harmful bacteria.

According to one test-tube study, white mustard essential oil decreased the growth of several strains of bacteria.

2. May promote skin and hair health

Pure mustard oil is often applied topically to help optimize hair and� skin health.

As well as adding it to homemade face masks and hair treatments, it’s sometimes mixed with wax and applied to the feet to help heal cracked heels.

3. May alleviate pain

Mustard oil contains allyl isothiocyanate, a chemical compound that has been well studied for its effect on pain receptors in the body

4. May slow cancer cell growth

Promising research suggests that mustard oil may help slow the growth and spread of certain types of cancer cells.

In one older study, feeding pure mustard oil to rats blocked the growth of colon cancer cells more effectively than feeding them corn oil or� fish oil

7. May help treat cold symptoms

Pure mustard oil is often used as a natural remedy to� treat cold symptoms, such as coughing and congestion.

It can be mixed with� camphor, a compound often found in creams and ointments, and applied directly to the chest.