Synopsis

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

Mustard seed has been traditionally used in various cultures as a remedy to address symptoms such as chills. Historical records indicate that mustard seed, both in whole and powdered form, has been employed in folk medicine and traditional healing systems, including Ayurveda and traditional European medicine. The typical application involved creating a mustard plaster or poultice, which was applied externally to the chest, back, or feet. The warming sensation produced by mustard's volatile oils and compounds, such as allyl isothiocyanate, was believed to stimulate circulation and generate heat, thereby counteracting chills associated with cold exposure or minor illnesses like colds and flu.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the use of mustard seed specifically for chills is minimal. While the warming effect of topical mustard preparations is well-documented, this relates more to symptomatic relief rather than addressing the underlying cause of chills (such as fever or infection). No well-controlled clinical trials have been conducted to establish efficacy for this use. The traditional rationale is based more on the general warming and stimulating properties of mustard rather than direct evidence for treating chills. As a result, while there is a strong traditional basis for its use, modern medicine does not widely endorse mustard seed for this purpose except as a folk remedy.

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