Mustard Seeds in Ayurvedic Medicine

Mustard seeds commonly called as Rai, Sarso, Shorshe, Kadugu in different languages is scientifically known by the name of Brassica juncea of the family Brassicaceae [1]. Different varieties of mustard seeds such as Brassica alba (White), Brassica juncea (brown) and Brassica nigra (black), seeds are extensively cultivated in countries like Asia, India, United States, Eastern Meditarrian, Hungary, Britain, Europe, Greece, Rome, Canada and in the Middle East where it is used in cooking for its sharp aroma and in traditional medicine [2,3]. Mustard seeds were once considered as an important natural remedy for relieving stomach distress such as flatulence or cramps [4-24]. With recent studies multitude of its medicinal potential was explored which is briefly outlined in the table below (Table 1).

Table 1:

Storage of mustard seeds

Mustard seeds either whole or grounded form can easily be stored in a dry airtight jar for approximately six to eight months [25].

Side effects of over consumption of mustard seeds

Over consumption of mustard seeds might result in the following side effects:

A. Development of allergic reactions such as hypersensitivity [26].

B. Skin irritation [27]

C. Raw mustard seeds contain goitrogens, a compound which interferes with the normal functioning of thyroid gland [28]

D. Presence of oxalates in mustard seeds interfere with the normal absorption of calcium in the body. Therefore, could be problematic for kidney stones patients [29].

Thus, mustard seeds possess numerous therapeutic agents that could be used for the treatment of number of health-related problems.

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