Mustard oil is extracted from the seeds of mustard plants, usually black mustard and white mustard. Mustard is in the cruciferous family of plants, along with broccoli and cauliflower. It is originally from the Mediterranean regions, but it grows easily in many parts of the world. Mustard oil has a variety of traditional uses.
Culinary Uses
Mustard oil has a characteristically pungent flavor and aroma. It is a common ingredient in many recipes from India and Pakistan, where it adds spice to vegetable dishes and pickles. The oil is rich in fatty acids, iron, magnesium and calcium.
In the U.S., Canada and the EU, mustard oil is labeled “for external use only.” Mustard oil contains high amounts of erucic acid. According to a 2003 report published by “Food Standards Australia New Zealand,” erucic acid is a controversial ingredient, because some animal studies have shown detrimental cardiovascular effects, while other studies showed positive results. Mustard oil also contains allyl isothiocyanate, the chemical whose derivatives are used in mustard gas. If you cook with mustard oil, you should heat it to the smoking point and cool it to the desired temperature, which possibly destroys most of the dangerous components.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Mustard oil contains a high amount of selenium and magnesium, which gives it anti-inflammatory properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to relieve the pain associated with arthritis and muscle sprains and strains. Mustard oil diluted with a carrier oil makes a warming massage oil for sore muscles. You can also prepare a poultice with ground mustard seeds and flour mixed with water to make a paste. Wrap the paste in cloth and press it on the sore area for 10 minutes.
A 2005 case study published in “The Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereolgy, and Leprology” (http://www.ijdvl.com/article.asp?issn=0378-6323;year=2005;volume=71;issue=4;spage=282;epage=284;aulast=Zawar) found that a massage oil containing mustard oil caused serious skin inflammation and lesions. Although allergic reactions to mustard oil are rare, you should stop using it if any redness or burning develop.
Respiratory Uses
The anti-inflammatory properties of mustard oil also make it a useful traditional treatment for respiratory symptoms associated with bronchitis, colds and asthma. To clear nasal and bronchial congestion, rub warm diluted mustard oil directly on your chest or neck. Avoid getting it on your face or in your nose, however, as the oil can irritate sensitive skin and cause burning in the mucous membranes. A poultice made with ground mustard seeds can also relieve congestion.
