2015-10-21
Joybynature.com Team
Oct
21

 

Where do we see mustard being used the most? You’re most likely to answer that it’s most commonly used as an accompaniment in the form of sauce with main dishes or snacks like French fries or American fast food like burgers and hot dogs. Or you may remember the smell of Bengali fish fried in mustard oil. But did you know that mustard is also used in the form of seeds, and actually used very frequently in the preparation of Indian food dishes. And not only do they give your food a rich flavor but also enhance its nutrition value and benefit your body in various ways. 

To know more about how you can use these little seeds to enhance your health and wellness levels, click here

Mustard seeds are used whole as tadka to season preparations like gravies, dals and curries, while these seeds are also grinded and used as a base in the preparation of these dishes. Used since ancient times for their good food value, these small brown inconspicuous seeds of the mustard plant are a rich source of a variety of nutrients like protein, sodium, potassium, carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium, iron, and Vitamins A, B, C and D. They also contain fats, mostly of the unsaturated healthy kinds, which are actually essential for the optimal functioning of your body. 

Following are some of the ways in which regular consumption of mustard seeds can have positive benefits on your mind, body and soul: 

  1. Prevents Asthma 

Regular consumption of mustard seeds can help reduce the impact of asthma and even prevent it since these seeds contain selenium and magnesium, both of which are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties, and help keep you safe from respiratory and nasal disorders like colds, coughs, chest congestions and asthma. 

  1. Promotes Gastrointestinal Health 

High in fiber and phytonutrients, mustard seeds have great benefits for your gastrointestinal system ranging from improved digestion function and regular bowel movements to prevention of cancer of the gastrointestinal tract as well as working to reduce the size of existing tumors. 

  1. Regulates Blood Cholesterol Levels 

The high Vitamin B3 content of mustard seeds makes them an effective mechanism to regulate your blood cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can lead to severe health complications like cardiovascular diseases and strokes, and hence mustard seeds are extremely beneficial for the healthy functioning of your heart. 

  1. Good for Your Skin and Hair 

While mustard might not be your first go to option when it comes to beauty treatments, believe it or not, these seeds are extremely beneficial for your skin and hair. Not only do they keep your skin healthy, their sulphur content works as an anti-bacterial agent to prevent and fight skin issues like acne, rashes, etc. The presence of beta carotene and essential fatty acids in mustard seeds promote healthy hair growth, keeping your hair nourished from root to tip, preventing hair fall, breakage and split ends. 

  1. Highly Effective Anti-Inflammatory Agent 

Mustard seeds contain selenium and magnesium, both of which contribute to its thermogenic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it the perfect solution for your chronic aches and pains. Along with oral consumption, you can also grind these seeds to make a paste and apply locally to the affected area. 

And if you thought that was all, hold on – Mustard seeds are also packed with excellent nutrients and antioxidants that help boost your metabolism helping you shed those excess kilos, fight both internal and external signs of aging and even improve your immunity levels equipping your body with the armor it needs to keep diseases at bay. 

So what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen and go find these seeds in your spice box. Recommended dosage ranges from 1-2 teaspoons twice a day. This small addition to your daily diet can work wonders for your body. 

To further explore the wonders of these little brown seeds, click here.

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