Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

White Mustard (Sinapis alba) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including for various infections and respiratory complaints. In folk remedies across Europe and Asia, mustard seeds have been applied as poultices or incorporated into plasters to alleviate symptoms of chest congestion, coughs, and sometimes infections. This appears to be based on the warming and irritant properties of mustard, which can promote increased blood flow to the area and induce sweating, believed to help the body fight off illness. However, direct use of white mustard for treating infections internally is less documented than topical applications.

From a scientific perspective, white mustard seeds contain glucosinolates, which can break down into compounds with mild antimicrobial properties in vitro. However, most research focuses on black mustard (Brassica nigra) or related plants, and the clinical significance of these effects in humans is not established. There are no high-quality clinical studies demonstrating that white mustard is effective in treating infections. Therefore, while traditional use exists, scientific evidence is limited to preliminary laboratory data, and there is no reliable proof of efficacy for infection treatment in humans. The overall evidence supporting its use for infection is weak.

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