What Are The Benefits Of Mustard Oil?

Question

I’ve been hearing about mustard oil my whole life, mostly from my grandma, who swears by it for almost everything. Whether it’s hair care, massages, or even cooking, she insists mustard oil is the secret to good health. But I’ve never really paid attention to her advice until now. Recently, I’ve started noticing more hair fall and a lot of dandruff. My scalp feels itchy all the time, and no shampoo seems to help. So I started wondering: What are the benefits of mustard oil?

I’ve read that mustard oil is excellent for hair health. Some people say it strengthens hair roots, reduces dandruff, and even promotes hair growth. Is this true? My hairline has been thinning for a while, and I’m desperate for something natural that might actually help. If mustard oil really works, how should I use it? Do I massage it into my scalp and leave it overnight, or do I need to mix it with something else, like coconut oil? And how often should I use it to see results?

Another thing I’ve heard is that mustard oil is good for joint pain and muscle stiffness. My dad has arthritis and struggles with joint pain, especially in the mornings. Could mustard oil massages provide any relief for him? Are there specific techniques to apply it for better results? And what about skin care? I’ve read that mustard oil can help with dry skin, but some people say it can cause irritation. Is it safe to use on the face, or is it better for body massages?

When it comes to cooking, I’ve grown up eating food prepared in mustard oil. My family believes it makes dishes healthier and tastier. But I’ve recently come across articles online saying mustard oil contains erucic acid, which might be harmful. Should I be worried about this? Is mustard oil safe to use as a cooking oil, or is it better to switch to alternatives like olive oil or sunflower oil?

Lastly, there are so many types of mustard oil available in stores. Some are labeled as “cold-pressed,” while others are refined. Which one is better for health, and how can I be sure I’m buying a pure product? Are there any particular brands you would recommend?

If anyone here has experience using mustard oil for hair care, joint pain, or cooking, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did you notice any significant changes? Are there any side effects I should watch out for?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Mustard oil is indeed highly valued in Ayurveda for its diverse health benefits. It is known to stimulate blood circulation, which helps nourish the hair roots, promote hair growth, and reduce dandruff. For hair care, you can massage warm mustard oil into the scalp, leave it for an hour or overnight, and wash it off with a mild shampoo. Mixing it with coconut oil can be beneficial for sensitive skin types or if you want to reduce its strong scent. For joint pain, mustard oil’s warming properties can provide relief when massaged gently into affected areas, especially in cases of arthritis. It's helpful to use circular motions to increase blood flow and alleviate stiffness. In skincare, mustard oil is often used for dry skin, as it is rich in vitamins and fatty acids; however, it may cause irritation for sensitive skin, so patch testing is recommended before use on the face. As for cooking, mustard oil does contain erucic acid, but in moderation, it is generally safe for most people. Cold-pressed mustard oil is the best option for health, as it retains more nutrients, whereas refined oil may have fewer benefits. When purchasing, look for cold-pressed and pure mustard oil from reputable brands. While mustard oil offers many advantages, it’s essential to use it in moderation and be mindful of its effects on your skin or health. If you experience irritation or digestive issues, it might be best to switch to alternatives like olive or sunflower oil.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Mustard Oil Benefits:

Hair Care: Strengthens roots, reduces dandruff, and promotes growth. Massage into the scalp, leave for 1–2 hours or overnight, and wash. Use 2–3 times weekly. Mix with coconut oil for better results.
Joint Pain: Its anti-inflammatory properties relieve stiffness and arthritis pain. Warm it slightly, massage gently, and use regularly.
Skin Care: Moisturizes dry skin but may irritate sensitive skin. Best for body massages, not the face.
Cooking: Traditional and flavorful. Use cold-pressed mustard oil for health benefits, but limit excessive consumption due to erucic acid concerns.
Best Type: Choose cold-pressed, pure mustard oil for maximum benefits. Trusted brands include Patanjali and Fortune Kachi Ghani.
Results: Regular use improves hair and joint health within weeks!

What Are The Benefits Of Mustard Oil? - #9222

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