Mustard oil, commonly known as “Sarson ka Tel”, is one of the integral parts of Indian cuisine for centuries. It is said to be cultivated in India around 3000 BC and is widely used as a basic cooking oil across India, Nepal, Bangladesh, etc. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family of flowering plants, known for its distinctive pungent taste and fragrance, which is due to the presence of allyl isothiocyanate compound in them. Apart from its widespread use in cooking, the oil holds a great position in the ancient medicinal system of Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial properties.
Mustard oil is a key ingredient of various Indian cuisines. It provides a warm and spicy flavor to any dish. From being used as a staple ingredient for cooking to a basic component to increase the self-life of pickles, it has found its way into almost every Indian household. Grinding mustard seeds and combining it with water and/or other liquids, gives us mustard oil. It is sometimes necessary to let the liquid settle for a while, seldom overnight, before it is boiled and filtered to obtain the oil, which is used in cooking.
Mustard Oil Benefits – As per Ayurveda and Modern Research
Mustard oil has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years for its various health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of mustard oil supported by both Ayurveda and modern research:
- Boosts heart health: Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help reduce bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol levels in the blood. This can improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Improves skin and hair health: Mustard oil is a rich source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin and hair from damage caused by free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce skin irritation and inflammation.
- Helps fight infections: Mustard oil has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacterial and fungal infections. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation associated with infections.
- Aids digestion: Mustard oil contains compounds that can stimulate the digestive system, promoting better digestion and reducing the risk of digestive issues such as constipation and bloating.
- Helps manage diabetes: Mustard oil has been found to have a hypoglycemic effect, which means it can help reduce blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes who need to keep their blood sugar levels in check.
- Relieves joint pain: Mustard oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids that can help lubricate the joints and reduce stiffness.
- May improve brain function: Mustard oil contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for brain health. ALA can help improve cognitive function, and memory, and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Mustard oil has several potential health benefits, but it is important to note that it should be used in moderation and should not be consumed in large quantities. It is also important to consult a healthcare professional before using mustard oil as a remedy or supplement.
How to use Mustard Oil or Sarson ka Tel? 4 Common and Practical ways of Using Mustard Oil
- Cooking: Mustard oil is commonly used for cooking in many parts of the world, especially in Indian cuisine. It has a high smoke point, which means it can be used for high-temperature cooking methods such as frying and sautéing. It is also used as a flavoring agent in many dishes.
- Massage: Mustard oil has been traditionally used for massage in Ayurvedic medicine. It is believed to have warming and soothing properties that can help relieve muscle and joint pain. It is also used in some hair oils for promoting hair growth.
- Skin and hair care: Mustard oil can be used topically on the skin and hair. It is believed to have moisturizing and nourishing properties that can help improve the health and appearance of the skin and hair. It is commonly used in some parts of the world as a natural remedy for dry skin and scalp.
- Ayurvedic remedies: Mustard oil is used in many Ayurvedic remedies for various health issues such as digestive problems, respiratory issues, and joint pain. It is often used in combination with other herbs and spices for its therapeutic properties.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Mustard oil:
Nimbekai Uppinakai- South Indian Lime Pickle
Mango Avakaya Pickle- Homemade
Aam Gunde ka Achar/Marwari Kairi Lehsua Pickle
Chicken Pickle – 100% Himalayan
Rocket Red Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Green Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Garlic Pickle – Homemade
Red Chilli Garlic Pickle – Homemade
Mustard oil contains about 60% monounsaturated fatty acids, 21% polyunsaturated fats, and about 12% saturated fats. It is an optimum mix of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and low saturated fats, which makes this oil healthy and nutritious.
With so much to offer for over centuries, let’s dive into the 7 health benefits of mustard oil:
1. Promotes hair and skin health
Applied topically, mustard oil can help optimize healthy hair and skin. Mixed and applied with wax, it heels cracked heels. This oil is used to make homemade face masks and hair treatment serum. The most available evidence regarding the topical benefits of this oil is purely anecdotal, despite many reports on the improvement of fine lines, wrinkles, and hair growth. You should first perform a patch test before applying it directly to your skin or scalp to prevent irritation.
To read our latest and more detailed analysis of Mustard Oil, please Click Here.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Mustard oil:
Nimbekai Uppinakai- South Indian Lime Pickle
Mango Avakaya Pickle- Homemade
Aam Gunde ka Achar/Marwari Kairi Lehsua Pickle
Chicken Pickle – 100% Himalayan
Rocket Red Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Green Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Garlic Pickle – Homemade
Red Chilli Garlic Pickle – Homemade
2. Mustard oil defends against infections
In addition to its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, mustard oil has an anti-inflammatory effect. Both externally and internally, it fights against infections in multiple ways, including infections of the digestive tract. This is because selenium is present in it, which has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to reducing pain and swelling, the mineral also eases joint pain.
3. Acts as a stimulant naturally
Mustard oil acts as a very powerful natural stimulant. Intake of this oil stimulates the liver and spleen to release digestive juices and bile, which improves the digestion system and human appetite. When massaged on the stomach, this oil stimulates our blood circulation as well as our sweat glands by enlarging skin pores through sweat.
To read our latest and more detailed analysis of Mustard Oil, please Click Here.
4. May reduce cancer risk
Linolenic acid found in mustard oil has cancer-fighting properties. Several studies have indicated that this fatty acid may lessen the risk of colon and stomach cancer. In a study from South Dakota University, rats with colon cancer were treated with mustard, corn, and fish oils. Rats fed with mustard oil were less likely to develop colon cancer than those fed fish oil.
5. Circulates blood better
In Ayurveda, body massage from mustard oil helps to improve blood flow, skin texture, and release muscular tension. It also activates the sweat glands, which allows the body to rid itself of toxins. As a result, it provides a natural cleansing effect.
Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Mustard oil:
Nimbekai Uppinakai- South Indian Lime Pickle
Mango Avakaya Pickle- Homemade
Aam Gunde ka Achar/Marwari Kairi Lehsua Pickle
Chicken Pickle – 100% Himalayan
Rocket Red Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Green Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Garlic Pickle – Homemade
Red Chilli Garlic Pickle – Homemade
6. Can help treat asthma
There is no permanent cure for asthma, but the use of mustard oil can reduce its symptoms and effects. Minerals like copper, magnesium, iron, and selenium found in mustard oil act as immediate, effective, and emergency home remedies to treat asthma. Mix warm oil with salt and massage it into your chest every day to subside its symptoms. The process may seem challenging for asthma patients but it does offer several benefits.
To read our latest and more detailed analysis of Mustard Oil, please Click Here.
7. Possibly aids weight loss
Mustard oil is filled with B-complex vitamins like riboflavin and niacin. This helps the body to burn more calories and provides weight loss benefits. As well as this oil also contains diacylglycerol, a property that may aid in the loss of weight. The food cooked in this oil is easy to digest and it increases the metabolism rate, which in turn burns body fat faster.
Final Verdict
Mustard oil is one of the healthiest and pocket-friendly oils available in the market. Monounsaturated fatty acids in this oil may provide some health benefits. Besides being good for the skin and hair, this oil has other benefits as well. Studies have shown that it helps to prevent cardiac diseases and infections. Use this oil for frying, pickle making, dressing your salads and vegetables, and enjoy your meal with a strong taste and aroma.
Although the FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) prohibits the excess use of this oil in cooking, as its excessive consumption may pose some serious health risks.
To read our latest and more detailed analysis of Mustard Oil, please Click Here.
For Benefits of Amla for Hair, click here
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6 Benefits of Eating Pumpkin Seeds, click here
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Please do have a look of our wide variety of products prepared using Mustard oil:
Nimbekai Uppinakai- South Indian Lime Pickle
Mango Avakaya Pickle- Homemade
Aam Gunde ka Achar/Marwari Kairi Lehsua Pickle
Chicken Pickle – 100% Himalayan
Rocket Red Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Green Chilli Pickle – Homemade
Garlic Pickle – Homemade
Red Chilli Garlic Pickle – Homemade
