We have long used mustard seeds extensively in Indian cuisine. Beyond their culinary uses, they are also valued in Ayurveda for addressing certain health concerns. Acharya Balkrishnaji, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, explains the properties of mustard seeds and their use in Ayurvedic home remedies. Also, discover the related Patanjali products.
Know Mustard Seeds
Scientifically, mustard seeds are the small, round reproductive parts of the mustard plant. The popular black mustard seeds have a sharp, pungent taste, while the spicy brown variety is commonly used in Indian tadka. The milder yellow variety is used mostly in American yellow seasoning. Dry mustard seeds have little aroma, but when crushed or chewed, they release strong oils.
In Ayurveda, mustard seeds are valued for their pungency, heating energy and ability to balance the Vata and Kapha doshas. However, they can increase Pitta dosha. Mustard seeds are believed to stimulate digestive fire, reduce lethargy, support nutrient absorption, and provide relief from joint and muscle stiffness. They are also rich in calcium, phosphorus, selenium, magnesium and vitamin B-3 (niacin).
Nepal, Russia, Canada, India and the USA are among the major producers of mustard seeds. Read on to discover how these seeds can be used in home remedies for certain health concerns, along with the related Patanjali offerings.
3 Ayurvedic Home Remedies of Mustard Seeds
For Skin: Acharya Balkrishnaji suggests using either apple cider vinegar or jamun vinegar. Mix the vinegar with ground mustard seeds to make a paste and apply it to the affected area. This may be helpful for those experiencing itching or skin irritation. Massage the paste gently onto the skin, leave it on for some time, and then bathe.
The remedy may also help with skin dryness and rashes associated with certain skin issues. It can also be used for stretch marks, which may appear after childbirth or due to obesity when the skin loses its elasticity, leaving noticeable marks.
For Joint Pain: Add crushed garlic or mustard seeds to mustard oil and warm the oil gently. Massage the affected joints with the warm oil to help ease pain. You can also add salt or cloves to the mustard oil while warming it. Massage the painful joints with the oil to help improve circulation and provide relief.
For Congestion: For relief from head heaviness, add mustard seed powder to warm water and use it for a foot soak. For chest congestion, finely powder two to three teaspoons of mustard seeds and mix them with an equal amount of wheat flour. Add water to make a thick, spreadable paste and use it to prepare a poultice. Place the poultice on the chest for around 10 to 15 minutes. Remove it and repeat the application two minutes later. Follow this routine regularly to observe the difference.
Patanjali uses Ayurvedic methods to create and offer products that are suitable for everyday use. Patanjali Khubkala Hedge Mustard Seeds (50 Gms) are high-quality seeds that can be used in Ayurvedic home remedies for cough, chest congestion and fever. They are also considered beneficial for digestion.
Patanjali Kolhu Mustard Oil (1 Ltr) is a cold-pressed oil suitable for cooking as well as personal use. It can be used for massages as part of the home remedies mentioned above. You can also use it to prepare a variety of Indian dishes and pickles.
For the first remedy, use Patanjali Apple Vinegar (500 Ml). It is also beneficial for digestive troubles and helps maintain liver, brain and heart health.
The health benefits of mustard seeds are many. It is time to follow the advice of Acharya Balkrishnaji, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurved, and explore their traditional uses for health and wellness. Patanjali complements these remedies with its range of related products.
