Aside from its many benefits as a spice, mustard can also be helpful in promoting good health. In fact, it contains a variety of nutrients that can benefit your body in several ways. For example, it has anti-inflammatory properties and it can help you fight off bacteria, infection, and even cancer.
Anti-cancer
Mustard seeds are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain carotenoids, glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. These phytochemicals have been shown to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. In addition, mustards may also prevent the development of cancer.
In the recent years, research has been carried out to investigate the potential anti-cancer effects of nitrogen mustards. The studies showed that nitrogen mustards are capable of enhancing the lipophilicity of drug-like cytotoxic derivatives. Further, conjugation of nitrogen mustards to targeted antitumor drugs may provide a higher selectivity and reduce toxicity.
Nitrogen mustards are derived from the molecule N,N-bis(2-chloroethyl)amine. It is the first studied DNA cross-linking agent.
Nitrogen mustards are widely used as anticancer drugs. However, the toxicity and effectiveness of these agents are limited. This is attributed to the lack of selectivity to cancer cells.
The physicochemical and therapeutic properties of nitrogen mustards have been enhanced through the hybridization of these compounds with platinum(IV) complexes. Consequently, a number of hybrid molecules with improved selectivity and potency have been developed.
In addition, several cytostatic and cytotoxic activities have been observed. For instance, molecule 18 is capable of inducing cell cycle arrest in G2/S phases. Similarly, molecule 13e is a cytostatic agent with IC50 value of 0.71 mM against NCI-60 cells.
Anti-bacterial
Mustard oil contains anti-bacterial properties that are useful for reducing infections. It also helps fight fungal infections. If you are suffering from bacterial or fungal skin infections, apply mustard oil topically.
Various essential oils have been found to have anti-bacterial properties. However, there is no clear understanding of the mechanism. A few studies have shown that AITC vaporised from pure mustard essential oils can inhibit E. coli OI57:H7 and nine foodborne bacteria strains.
The chemical compound sinalbin is another antimicrobial agent. It is formed when glucosinolates, a group of sulfur compounds, are digested in the digestive tract. Interestingly, sinalbin is a precursor to another molecule, isothiocyanate.
In one study, a footbath with ground black mustard seed powder was used to treat respiratory infections. Participants soaked their feet in the bath daily for six days. The study found that the warming effect of the bath could enhance immunity.
Mustard oil was also found to be effective in treating dental infections. It has been shown to kill lactic acid bacteria and reduce the growth of Aspergillus parasiticus.
According to Lin, et al., the concentration of antimicrobial compounds in the headspace was a better predictor of the bactericidal effect of mustard oil than the concentration of antimicrobial compounds in the food.
Anti-inflammatory
Aside from being used as a condiment, mustard can also help you fight inflammation. Mustard seeds are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, including glucosinolates and isorhamnetin. Some of these compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may protect against cancer and other health conditions.
In addition to being an anti-inflammatory, mustard may have a positive effect on the spleen, digestive system, liver and other parts of the body. This is because the oil contains a compound known as erucic acid. It also stimulates bile production in the liver and spleen.
Another benefit of mustard is its ability to protect against certain pathogens and fungi. For example, if you have a fungus infection on your scalp, applying mustard essential oil can help to clear it up. Also, it has been shown to reduce pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
While it is important to avoid overdoing it, there are many benefits to using mustard as a beauty product. If you have a problem with dandruff, apply a few drops of mustard oil to your hair, then rinse it off with a mild shampoo. You can also massage mustard into your skin to stimulate circulation.
The plant is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to your body’s energy and cellular regeneration. The oils may also protect your skin from toxins from the environment.
Wound-healing
Mustard is an important source of several vitamins and minerals, and it is a natural source of antioxidants. Its antimicrobial properties make it useful in the treatment of many health conditions.
In addition to its medicinal properties, mustard seeds are also a great source of fibre. They are also an excellent source of Vitamin B6 and vitamin C.
Mustard oil has been known for its ability to reduce inflammation. As such, it is often applied topically to wounds to stop infection. Although the mechanism is unclear, mustard oil has been known to reduce swelling and pain.
Several studies have investigated the benefits of mustard on the human body. These include its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
While research on the effects of mustard on humans is in its infancy, the plant has been used as a traditional medicine in many cultures. Studies have shown that mustard seed extracts may benefit heart health.
The seed is especially rich in magnesium, a mineral that plays a vital role in the human body. Magnesium helps the body convert food into energy. It also regulates neurotransmitters.
Mustard also contains selenium, an essential mineral that aids the thyroid gland. Other nutrients include vitamins A and E, which protect cells from free radicals.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral which is present in mustard. This mineral is essential for the production of energy. It helps control important muscle functions. It also plays a role in metabolic processes.
Magnesium in mustard is found in the seeds of the plant. The seeds are rich in magnesium, copper, zinc, iron, selenium, and manganese. They also contain dietary fibers. In addition, they have phytonutrients known as glucosinolates and myrosinase.
Mustard seeds are an excellent source of protein, dietary fiber, and trace minerals. These nutrients are beneficial for digestion, as well as for maintaining a healthy bowel movement.
Mustard seeds also have antioxidants, which may help protect the body from cancer. They have also been shown to relieve arthritis, migraine headaches, menstrual pain, and back pain. Moreover, they can be used topically to reduce fever and pain from inflammation.
Some studies have indicated that mustard can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Additionally, it has been shown to decrease the incidence of asthma.
Mustard greens have also been studied as a cancer preventive food. It is believed that mustard greens are rich in a variety of antioxidants that help reduce blockages in the arteries.
Magnesium in mustard helps maintain a healthy blood vessel tone. It can also be helpful in reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Digestion
If you have been looking for ways to enhance your digestive health, mustard can be a good choice. It is rich in a variety of nutrients. The seeds are particularly high in fiber. They also contain magnesium and iron.
Mustard leaves are a great addition to salads and soups. They also contain plant chlorophyll derivatives that aid in detoxification. These nutrients help neutralize heavy metals.
Mustard seeds also contain high levels of magnesium. This mineral helps regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, they are a rich source of selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that can protect against some cancers. Additionally, it may reduce the risks of asthma, heart attacks, and other health problems.
Mustard is also rich in glucosinolates, which are sulfur compounds. Some research suggests that glucosinolates can protect against bacterial infections. However, more studies are needed to determine if this benefit is real.
In addition to being a healthy source of magnesium and selenium, mustard seeds are an excellent source of dietary fibre. Fiber helps soften stools. This in turn allows waste to be eliminated more easily.
Including mustard seeds in your diet can help reduce migraine headaches and cramping from strenuous activities. They are also an effective anti-inflammatory.
Skin
Mustard is a very beneficial skin supplement. It has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that help keep your skin healthy. You can also use it as a massage oil to treat rashes and infections.
When applied to the skin, mustard can reduce inflammation, lighten dark spots, and promote healthy skin. In addition, it has a warming effect that can help reduce pain.
As a natural moisturizer, mustard can hydrate your skin, removing dead cells and impurities. It is rich in vitamin E, which may help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Mustard can be used to help heal a variety of skin ailments, including rashes, acne, and cracked heels. It can even strengthen your nails.
Mustard has also been used as a home remedy to relieve sore muscles. A mustard face scrub can be used to help you achieve a flawless complexion.
Mustard is a plant that grows commercially in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The seeds are used in cooking as a spice or as a powder. They can be mixed with essential oils to create a facial scrub.
Mustard seeds contain sulfur, which can have strong anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. They can also be used to treat rashes and psoriasis.