Mustard-oil is a very popular edible oil used in cooking. However, its purpose doesn’t stop there. It further exhibits its effectiveness in treating problems, like cough, cold, allergies, arthritis, joint and muscle pain, respiratory conditions, skin and hair problems and more. But, what about cold-pressed mustard oils, are they really beneficial for our health as well? Let’s find out.
A Brief History About Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil
It’s long been said that mustard essential oil (also called synthetic mustard oil), as well as cold-pressed mustard oil, were used by people in cooking and also in medicine several thousands of years ago. Therefore, it is not something that is new to us. Their difference, however, is simply in their production methods and the ingredients used.
Cold-pressed mustard oil is generally made from the ancient method called the cold-pressed technique. In this method of preparing mustard oil, the seeds of the mustard plants are used as the main ingredient. These mustard seeds are then cold-pressed under a pre-defined temperature, in which the oil is extracted with the help of pressing plates. Thus, its name has been known as ‘cold-pressed mustard oil’ from the method that is used for its preparation.
Mustard is a flower-bearing plant of the ‘Brassica’ species. The method which is used in the preparation of cold-pressed mustard oil is also known to be very old – since ancient times. When this oil is finally prepared, it gives out a pungent smell and taste, and its colour may appear dark or transparent.
Although it is not very clear about the origin of cold-pressed mustard oil, however, its use as a tradition in cooking can be seen in countries, like India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and perhaps, several more Asian countries. The local name given to this oil in regions of the Indian sub-continent is ‘Sarson ka Tel’. At present, its use as an edible oil in cooking various kinds of dishes are being adopted in many countries in the west and Europe, as well.
How Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil Benefits Our Health
For centuries, even experts now believe that cold-pressed mustard-oil can be beneficial to our health by fulfilling several purposes. The essential properties found in cold-pressed mustard oil include anti-fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-6 fatty acids. It also contains various key nutrients, such as monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, minerals and iron which makes it a multi-purpose oil.
Contains Anti-bacterial Properties
The glucosinolates and anti-bacterial agents present in mustard-oil restricts the growth of unwanted bacteria and microbes in the body. Also, it may be able to treat both bacterial and fungal infections when applied directly to the skin.
Fights Fungal Diseases
Cold-pressed mustard oil is very effective when it comes to fighting fungal diseases. It can also treat skin rashes and infections caused by fungi.
Joint Pain, Arthritis, Aches and Inflammation
Mustard oil has its widespread use as an effective body massage oil, which improves blood circulation, skin texture and releases muscular tension. It can help with conditions, like suffering from pain occurring in the joints, arthritis (also joint pain), and can even reduce pain from body aches and inflammation on the skin and other areas in the body.
In fact, the practice of using mustard oil for body massage has been in existence since ancient times in the Indian sub-continent.
Joint Stiffness
The Omega-3 fatty acids contained in the mustard-oil acts as an anti-inflammatory agent for relieving stiffness in the joints, which may also be caused by arthritis.
Cardiovascular Health
The good fats in cold-pressed mustard oil can help boost cardiovascular health by reducing bad cholesterol (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels in the body.
Asthma and Other Respiratory Conditions
Cold-pressed mustard oil can help in curing asthma and similar breathing problems, which occur in both children and adults. In treating asthma and breathing problems, you may use a tablespoon of cold-pressed mustard oil and rub it on the chest of children and adults.
Caring for Your Skin and Hair with Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil
Several studies have shown that cold-pressed mustard-oil can also help treat various skin and hair conditions quite effectively.
Hair Growth, Strength and Shine
Cold-pressed mustard oil makes hair strong, healthy, prevent hair loss and boosts hair growth. When applied to the scalp, the presence of vitamin E in the oil promotes blood circulation. The Omega-3 fatty acids in mustard oil make hair grow in length, strength and also improve its shine.
Application: Take a few drops of cold-pressed mustard oil and apply gently on the scalp. Massage for 10-15 minutes before washing or taking a shower. Repeat this once daily for a few days in order to get the best results.
Skin Health
Cold-pressed mustard oil helps improve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. An excess amount of vitamin E in mustard oil nourishes the skin. It helps in reducing wrinkles, skin infections, rashes, skin allergies and dryness.
Application: When applying on your skin or body, take a tablespoon of cold-pressed mustard oil and apply to the affected areas. Repeat this for a few days to get good results.
How to Use Cold-Pressed Mustard Oil During Winter?
Cold-pressed mustard-oil can be used as a fine remedy against cold and cough, which commonly occurs in people, especially during winter.
Cold and Cough
When winter approaches, it also brings with it the risk of getting cold, fever, and cough, in children and adults, as well.
Cold-pressed mustard-oil can help reduce the effects of cough and cold through its various uses. These are given as follows:
(a) Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from mustard oil can be helpful in giving relief from congestion occurring in the chest and respiratory tract, especially during cold weather conditions and in winter.
(b) Massage: Another effective method of getting relief from cold and cough during winter is by massaging feet and chest with heated mustard oil. This can be done by following a few simple steps given as under:
- Take 3-4 drops of cold-pressed mustard oil and apply gently on the chest and feet once daily. It can be used either by heating or as normal. Massage for 15-30 minutes. Do not wash, instead, leave it overnight. It will give relief from cold and cough.
The oil can also be great for improving the circulation of blood to the skin when used for massage. While it is most effective when this cold-pressed oil is used by warming. In low heat before its application on the skin and body.
Conclusion
Cold-pressed mustard oil is a wonder oil that offers numerous benefits to our body, skin and hair. Thus, its several uses as edible oil, massage oil, and for treating skin and hair conditions. This makes mustard cold-pressed oil a household essential.