Although known as a condiment, mustard is actually a plant. Its leaves and seeds are both edible, and are generally used in cooking to prepare sauces. Mustard does not have only culinary qualities! This plant is also very prized for its therapeutic and cosmetic virtues. Discover the different uses of mustard.
Essential ingredient in salads and many other culinary preparations, mustard is a plant with multiple virtues. It is part of the cruciferous family such as broccoli and cauliflower and comes in various forms including white mustard, black mustard and brown mustard.
Rich in nutrients including vitamin A, C and manganese, calcium, vitamin E, selenium and iron, this herb has many health benefits.
This ingredient contains many antioxidants that limit the damage caused by free radicals and thus prevent several health problems including cancer.
Mustard is very effective in facilitating digestion and fighting bloating and digestive discomfort. Indeed, this ingredient stimulates the production of gastric juices and saliva and reduces the fermentation of food thanks to the antiseptic powers of its sulfur compounds.
Mustard is also widely used for its warming effect. In addition to reducing chills, it also helps to warm hands and feet. Mustard seeds especially contain an oil that stimulates blood circulation which generates heat flow throughout the body.
Other benefits and uses of mustard include:
1 - To relieve muscle pain and cramps:
Thanks to its analgesic, pain-relieving and warming effect, mustard can help relieve pain, cramps and muscle stiffness. Indeed, this ingredient generates heat, which reduces the inflammation. Moreover, athletes swear by mustard to relax their muscles.
How to proceed ?
Prepare an infusion of mustard by mixing a teaspoon of mustard seeds and a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for a few minutes, then soak a tissue of this mixture and apply it on the area to be treated.
You can also opt for a mustard bath. There is special mustard for baths, but you can also opt for the conventional one and add some Epsom salt, also known for its relaxing effect on the muscles.
Another option is to prepare a poultice based on mustard flour, wheat flour and warm water. Place a gauze on the painful part, then spread out your paste and let it act for a few minutes.
2 - To stimulate the growth of hair:
Mustard, or more precisely mustard oil can help you take care of your hair. Indeed, rich in nutrients (zinc, omega 3, vitamin A and E ...), this oil has a gaining effect and has been used for centuries for hair care. It is also effective in stopping hair loss and stimulating its regrowth because it stimulates blood circulation.
How to proceed ?
Mix the mustard oil with a vegetable oil like coconut oil or castor oil and make an oil bath or massage the scalp with, before you wash your hair as usual.
3 - To relieve colds:
Rich in nutrients, mustard is excellent for fighting colds and bronchitis. It also contains sinigrin and myrosin, which fluidize the mucus and promote its elimination. In addition, the heat generated can help relieve air congestion.
How to proceed ?
Prepare a poultice by mixing a little mustard flour with a little warm water to have a kind of paste. Then put a gauze on the chest and pour over the mixture and cover with another gauze. Leave on for 10 minutes
This remedy is also effective in soothing cough fits.
4 - To get ride of bad odors:
To get rid of the bad odors in your home, use mustard. Indeed, this ingredient is effective to combat the smell of mold in cupboards and wooden furniture in particular.
How to proceed ?
Fill a cup of mustard flour and place it in the places you want to sanitize.