picture: mid-August 2004

Origin:
Europe and Asia

Type:
annual (self seeding)

Flowering/Fruiting:

Part used:
ripe seeds

Actions:
antibacterial, counterirritant/rubefacient, carminative, diuretic, stimulant

Uses:
stimulating the digestion and circulation, topically as counterirritant to treat rheumatic pain
Mustard Poultice: mix 100 grams (4 ounces) of freshly ground mustard seeds with warm water (at about 45 degrees C) to form a thick paste.
Spread on a piece of cloth the size of the body area to be covered. To stop the paste sticking to the skin, lay a dampened gauze on the skin. Apply the cloth and remove after 1 minute.
The skin may be reddened by this treatment which can be eased by applying olive oil afterward. (from David Hoffman, Holistic Herbal)

Catchtail Comments:
Although sometimes very spicy, we love eating the mustard flowers and they are a nice spicy addition to salads or even stir-frys.

Links:
http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/m/mustar65.html#bla

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