9 Benefits of Mustard Oil (Plus How to Use It)

This oil has a wide range of applications, particularly in cosmetics and cookery.

Five uses of mustard oil include the following:

1. You may use mustard oil as the primary ingredient in both vegetarian and nonvegetarian cuisine.
2. It could be used with lemon and honey to make a salad dressing.
3. Mustard oil is a common ingredient in many pickles. When added to pickles and chutneys, it serves as a preservative.
4. It is believed that mustard oil heated with henna leaves, cooled, and applied to hair would promote hair development and fortify hair follicles.
5. To get rid of tan, lessen the effects of age and treat itching and redness of the skin, apply the oil to the skin for 10 minutes.

1. Lowers cardiovascular disease risk:
   • Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated (MUFA and PUFA), omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids are abundantly present in mustard oil. You have a lower risk of having ischemic heart disease if you consume these healthy fats in moderation and have an active lifestyle.
   • Additionally, mustard had been demonstrated to have hypocholesterolemia (lower cholesterol) and hypolipidemic (lower lipid) effects in rats.
   • The oil may lower levels of bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) and raise levels of good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) in the body. As a result, cardiovascular disease risk is decreased.
2. Possesses potential antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects:
   • Recent research has demonstrated that mustard oil-based microemulsions are effective antibacterial agents against E coli. Mustard oil contains glucosinolate, which inhibits the development of unwanted bacteria and other microorganisms.
   • Mustard oil has strong antifungal qualities. It can treat fungal infections and skin rashes. In a study that evaluated the exposure to various oils to prevent the ability of rye bread spoilage (by fungi), mustard oil turned out to be the most effective.
   • This is probably due to the presence of a substance called allyl isothiocyanate in mustard oil.
3. Beneficial for cold and cough: According to anecdotal evidence, steam therapy is the way to use mustard oil for cold and cough relief. Inhale the vapor from a kettle of boiling water after adding some caraway seeds and a drop of mustard oil. This can remove any phlegm buildup in the respiratory tract.
4. Potentially lowers cancer risk: Mustard oil has anticancer effects. It has a lot of linolenic acid in it. According to a study, this acid may lessen the severity of colon cancer.
   • The same was demonstrated by a South Dakota University investigation. They used rats with colon cancer to examine the effectiveness of fish, mustard, and maize oils. In rats, fish oil was found to be less efficient at preventing colon cancer than mustard oil.
5. Promotes weight loss: Niacin and riboflavin are two examples of the B-complex vitamins found in mustard oil. These could speed up body metabolism and aid in weight loss. Additionally, the oil includes diacylglycerol, which may aid in weight loss.
6. Enhances the efficiency of the organs: A body massage using mustard oil may revitalize the body and enhance organ performance. It improves blood flow to every area of the body. However, a more thorough investigation is required. In many countries, giving neonates a massage with mustard oil is extremely common. The benefits of utilizing mustard oil for a massage often include increased physical stamina and better general health.
7. Potentially effective insect repellent: An investigation carried out in Assam, India, examined this characteristic of mustard oil. The effectiveness of mustard and coconut oils as insect repellents against Aedes albopictus mosquitoes was tested. Compared to coconut oil, mustard oil could far more effectively protect for a longer period.
8. Improves skin tone:
   • B-complex vitamins are abundant in mustard oil. These vitamins could help maintain healthy skin.
   • Coconut oil and mustard could be combined in an equal ratio. Every night, massage this mixture into your skin for 15 minutes and then wash it off with a gentle face cleanser. If you use it frequently, you could start to see a difference in the tone of your skin. Delaying the onset of wrinkles may help lessen the effects of aging.
9. Teeth whitening and treating dental issues:
   • According to a study, mustard oil may be used to cure dental problems.
   • Combine one teaspoon of turmeric powder, one teaspoon of mustard oil, and half a teaspoon of salt to make a paste.
   • Apply this mixture to your gums and teeth two times daily. This may alleviate gingivitis and periodontitis while promoting the health of the teeth.