Did you know mustard is one of the oldest botanical medicines? Two thousand years ago mustard plasters were used for treating chest congestion, a practice still used. Barber surgeons used solutions made with mustard as a surgical scrub long before the development of antiseptic washes.

Mustard seeds contain two active chemical compounds that when added to water form an oil and the diluted oil acts as a counterirritant to reduce the number of pain messages transmitted to the brain through peripheral nerves. Mustard seeds ground into powder release a mustard oil that diluted with warm water can be used as a liniment to soothe painful, inflamed arthritic joints. Athletes use it for aching muscles.

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Mustard baths are used to promote increased circulation and are especially good for treating headaches or stimulating the cardiovascular system. Along with mustard powder, these baths preparations often include essential oils like eucalyptus, pine, thyme, wintergreen or rosemary and are used to relieve sufferings from general aches and pains, back pain, and can even relieve symptoms of a cold. They’re also good for relieving tension, fatigue and insomnia.