Evidence supporting the use of: Mustard seed
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Mustard seed has a history of use in traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and folk remedies, for various ailments, including ear infections and earaches. Typically, mustard oil (derived from mustard seeds) is warmed and used as ear drops or applied around the ear to alleviate discomfort. The rationale in these traditions is that mustard oil possesses warming, anti-inflammatory, and possibly antimicrobial properties that could help relieve pain or fight infection.
However, there is a lack of robust scientific research or clinical trials validating the use of mustard seed or its oil specifically for ear infections or earaches. Most evidence supporting its use is anecdotal or based on traditional practices rather than rigorous science. There are also safety concerns: introducing oils or other substances into the ear canal can risk further irritation or even injury, particularly if the eardrum is ruptured.
In summary, while mustard seed (primarily as mustard oil) is cited in traditional remedies for ear discomfort, there is minimal scientific evidence to support its efficacy or safety for this purpose. Modern medical advice generally recommends against using home remedies like mustard oil for ear infections, favoring evidence-based treatments instead.
Other ingredients used for Ear Infection or Earache
myrobalanbetel
blackberry
chamomile
Coptis chinensis
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
onion
Indian tinospora
mustard seed
oregano
plantain
rosemary
schizonepeta
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
xylitol
mullein
xanthium (cockleburs)
gastrodia
papaya
Indian bael
neem tree
nut grass
alpinia galangal
clerodendrum indicum
ferula assafoetida
hedychium spicatum
anise
blackboard tree
caesalpinia crista
myrrh
sweet flag
sweetgums
morinda
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
paw paw
melaleuca alternifolia
indigo leaves
geranium
Achyranthes
Anamu
Alchornea
Asafoetida
Aerva lanata
Alsonia scholaris
Asteracea
Abuta
Amor seco
Blepharis
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Bombax
Bergenia
Borneol
Coconut
Calendula
Cinnamomum
Calotropis gigantea
Cajuput
Centipeda
Calamus
Costus
Celosia
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Devil's Club
Erodium cicutarium
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Goldthread
Garlic
Little ironweed
Mallow
Poppy
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by mustard seed
Abdominal PainArthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bites and Stings
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Canker Sores
Carbuncles
Cardiovascular Disease
Chills
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (sinus)
Dandruff
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Edema
Fever
Foot Odor
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gingivitis
Gout
Hair Care (general)
Halitosis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)