Dried seed, ground
Sinapis alba
Canada
This seed is suitable for the following preparations:
The pungency of the condiment mustard results when ground mustard seeds are mixed with water or vinegar, typically. Under these conditions, or when chewed, an enzyme activates the glucosinolate to produce the pungent, Allyl isothiocyanate – the plant’s natural defense mechanism. Not surprsingly this compound is found in horseradish and wasabi. Add to salad dressing to emulsify (blends oil and vinegar together).
The seeds are commonly used whole in Indian cuisine where they are quickly fried in oil until they pop to impart a flavor to the oil.
Like many other seeds, Mustard has a high oil content. Known as Sarson in India it as ubiquitous there as olive oil is in the Mediteranean. This oil is is important to the Ayurvedic system of health care, often used topically.
Mustard Seeds are famous for their rubefacient properties by dilating the blood vessels and increasing the blood flow toward the surface of the skin, warming and reddening the affected area and encouraging the removal of toxins. Poultices and Mustard plasters are a tried-and-true remedy to relieve the pain of arthritic joints, rheumatism, sciatica, neuralgia, neck pain, backache, "charley horse," and muscle pain.