Mustard seeds are commonly used in Indian, Pakistani, Mediterranean and German cooking. Whole seeds, ground or powdered, prepared pastes, sauces and oils are all used in food preparation. Whole seeds are used for tempering, powdered seeds are widely used in a variety of pickles, dips and garnishings, and mustard oil is used for cooking. They impart rich taste and aroma to the food. They are widely used for their medicinal properties which have wide ranging benefits for health and beauty.
health benefits of mustard seeds
- Rich in phytonutrients, mustard seeds are an excellent way to prevent and slow down the progression of cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that these seeds can inhibit the growth of pre-existing cancer cells and prevent the formation of new ones.
- These seeds are high in selenium and magnesium. This gives it a unique anti-inflammatory property. Its regular consumption can control and keep away the symptoms of asthma, cold and chest tightness.
- It contains seeds loaded with vitamins like folate, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin etc. These are great at speeding up one’s metabolism for weight loss.
- Mustard being a great source of carotenes, zeaxanthin, and lutein, vitamins A, C, and K make it rich in antioxidants that slow down the aging process.
- Mustard’s selenium and magnesium content give it anti-inflammatory and heat-generating properties. The paste heats the area and helps loosen the muscles, thereby relieving pain.
- They contain high levels of niacin or vitamin B3, which helps lower cholesterol levels and protect the arteries from atherosclerosis, or plaque build-up. It also regulates blood flow and protects the body from high blood pressure.
- Since mustard seeds are rich in minerals like iron, manganese, copper etc., they help in improving the body’s ability to fight against diseases.
hair benefits of mustard seeds
1. Packed with vitamins and minerals and with high amounts of beta-carotene converted into vitamin A, it is excellent for hair growth. Its iron, fatty acids, calcium and magnesium act as stimulants, which leads to faster hair growth.
2. They contain protein, calcium, vitamins A and E, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. All these together make your hair strong from within. Stronger hair also means less hair fall.
Tip: Using mustard oil once a fortnight for a hot oil massage is a great way to relieve stress, reduce dandruff and promote hair growth. After applying oil, wrap your hair with a hot towel. It enhances the absorption of oil in the scalp. Leave it for about half an hour and then wash it. Use a good shampoo as the oil has a strong odor and is thick in consistency.
skin benefits of mustard seeds
1. Rich in sulphur, mustard seeds have antifungal and antibacterial properties which are useful in preventing skin infections.
2. Make a scrub by mixing lavender or rose essential oil with mustard seeds to exfoliate dead skin.
3. Mustard seeds along with aloe vera gel are great for hydrating your skin. It removes all the impurities from your face and nourishes it from within.
4. They are a great source of carotene and lutein and together with vitamins A, C and K, they form an excellent antioxidant that slows down skin aging.
security profile
In general, the seed and its oil are considered safe when used in small amounts. Large doses may cause gastric irritation, bleeding from the mucosa of the stomach or intestines. Prolonged exposure to the skin may cause skin burns. So use it in moderation. Consult your doctor before self-medicating.
Never forget to buy organic mustard seeds which are free from chemicals and artificial fertilizers.
Source by Karthik Guduru
