Evidence supporting the use of: Indian Mustard
For the health condition: Congestion

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) has a long history of traditional use for alleviating chest congestion and respiratory discomfort. In various forms—such as poultices or plasters made from mustard seeds—applications to the chest have been common home remedies in Indian, Chinese, and European folk medicine. The rationale is that mustard's irritant properties increase blood flow to the skin, producing a warming sensation that may help relieve congestion and ease breathing. This counterirritant effect is believed to distract from deeper aches and potentially loosen mucus through local heat and stimulation.

However, there is limited scientific research to validate these claims specifically for Indian Mustard. Most modern studies focus on related species (such as Sinapis alba) or on mustard's general pharmacological properties, like its content of allyl isothiocyanate, which can have irritant and anti-inflammatory effects. While some laboratory and animal studies suggest possible benefits for inflammation and mild antimicrobial effects, there is a lack of rigorous clinical trials supporting the efficacy or safety of mustard poultices for congestion in humans. Thus, the evidence for using Indian Mustard for congestion remains primarily traditional, with a low evidence rating due to the scarcity of controlled scientific data.

More about Indian Mustard
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