Benefits of Mustard Poultice Recipes

By Patricia | August 26, 2009

The ancient Greeks believed that Mustard was the gift of the Greek god of healing, Asclepious, to mankind. The Chinese used it thousands of years ago. Mustard has been used across the globe as a spice or a medicinal plant. It has been used in war times for healing wounds, and during epidemics, for ailments such as stomach disorders, toothaches, and scorpion bites. The color of mustard can range from yellowish white to black. Mustard is loaded with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, phosphorous, manganese, magnesium, iron, dietary fiber, calcium, protein, and zinc.

What is the magic of mustard? Mustard contains chemical compounds which are effective expectorants and `warming’ agents. It has excellent anti-fungal properties and is effective in curing athlete’s foot. Mustard tea is helpful in relieving muscular and skeletal pains, fever and cold. A mustard poultice has been used for asthma and bronchitis. However, a mustard poultice or mustard oil is an irritant and can cause burns.

Mustard Poultice: The age old poultice has been made from mustard powder, flour, and water, and has been used to treat chest congestion, coughs, and respiratory problems. It offers immediate relief from discomfort and helps to cure several infectious conditions. A mustard plaster is useful to increase circulation and stimulate perspiration in the affected area.

You will need a piece of cotton or muslin or just tear an old piece of flannel of about 12’’/ 6”. To make the poultice, mix ½ teaspoon of mustard seed powder or freshly ground mustard with 1 tablespoon of flour. Add cool water to the mixture slowly until it turns to a paste. You can also use hot water to make the paste. Spread the paste on half of the cloth and fold the cloth. If you use cold water to mix the powder and flour, you may have to warm it in an oven or microwave. Too much heat can cause the paste to cake up.

Place the pack on the chest or back, over a T- shirt. Place it for 15-30 minutes, and remove if the person experiences any discomfort. Check occasionally to see if it causes any reddening or burning. If you are alone and there is no one to help while you rest, set an alarm clock to wake you up every few hours to see if the skin has turned raw. The proportion of mustard and flour can vary according to the person’s skin sensitivity. Give ample liquids to the patient and make him/ her rest well. Make the patient take a cool or warm shower a few hours after the treatment.

Remember not to administer the treatment on the very young or the old, or on seriously sick persons without medical consultation.

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