Botanical Overview
Brassica nigra, commonly known as Black mustard or Mustard seed, belongs to the Brassicaceae family. The primary part used medicinally is the seed. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, it is widely cultivated for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Energetics
This herb is warming and drying in nature, with a pungent and bitter taste. Its action is generally ascending and outward, making it tonifying for the qi.
Primary Actions
- Expectorant
- Rubefacient
- Stimulant
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Congestion
- Muscle pain
- Rheumatic pain
- Respiratory catarrh
- Poor digestion
Syndromes
- Bronchitis with thick mucus
- Muscular rheumatism
- Dyspepsia
- Poor peripheral circulation
TCM
No specific traditional Chinese medical uses documented.
Ayurveda
No specific Ayurvedic uses documented.
Unani
No specific Unani uses documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains glucosinolates which hydrolyze to allyl isothiocyanate responsible for its pungency and irritant action. Also contains essential oils, flavonoids, and fatty acids.
Dosage & Preparations
- Mustard seed powder for poultices
- Tincture 1:5 50% ethanol, 1-3 mL 2-3 times daily
- Mustard seed oil used externally
Safety & Contraindications
Black mustard seed is a skin and mucous membrane irritant; use cautiously to avoid burns or excessive irritation. Internal use can cause gastrointestinal upset if overused. Pregnant women should avoid due to lack of safety data. May interact with anticoagulant medications.
Astrological Correspondences
No documented planetary or elemental rulers found in authoritative sources.
Selected References
- Brassica nigra Black Mustard – Plants For A Future
- Brassica nigra seed – European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph (2011)
- Medical Botany: Plants Affecting Human Health, James A. Duke (2000)
- The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety, Simon Y. Mills and Kerry Bone (2005)