1. May block microbial growth
According to certain research, mustard essential oil has strong antibacterial capabilities and may help prevent the formation of some types of dangerous bacteria.
White mustard essential oil, according to one test-tube research, inhibited the development of many kinds of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus.
Another research in test tubes investigated the antibacterial properties of essential oils such as mustard, thyme, and Mexican oregano on harmful microorganisms. Mustard essential oil was shown to be the most effective.
Furthermore, some in vitro investigations have revealed that mustard essential oil may suppress the growth of certain fungi and mould.
However, given the majority of information is based on test-tube experiments, further study is required to evaluate how mustard essential oil may effect human health.
2. May promote skin and hair health
Pure mustard oil is frequently used topically to improve hair and skin health.
It's sometimes combined with wax and used to the feet to help repair damaged heels, in addition to being included to DIY face masks and hair treatments.
It's also often used to provide oil massages on babies in places like Bangladesh, which is supposed to strengthen the skin barrier.
Although many people report improvements in fine lines, wrinkles, and hair growth, the majority of research on the topical effects of pure mustard oil is anecdotal.
If you opt to use mustard oil on your skin or scalp, do a patch test first and use only a tiny quantity to avoid irritation.
3. May alleviate pain
Mustard oil includes allyl isothiocyanate, a chemical molecule that has been extensively researched in terms of its effect on pain receptors in the body.
Although human research is limited, one animal study discovered that adding mustard oil to mice's drinking water numbed particular pain receptors and helped alleviate generalised pain.
Mustard oil is also high in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid that may help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Keep in mind, however, that prolonged topical contact to pure mustard oil has been found to cause severe skin burns.
More human studies are needed to assess the safety and efficacy of utilising mustard oil for pain alleviation.
4. May slow cancer cell growth
According to preliminary study, mustard oil may help reduce the growth and spread of some types of cancer cells.
In an earlier study, rats were fed pure mustard oil, which inhibited the development of colon cancer cells more efficiently than maize oil or fish oil.
Another animal study found that mustard seed powder high in allyl isothiocyanate decreased bladder cancer development by about 35% and prevented it from migrating into the bladder muscle wall.
A test-tube research found similar results, revealing that giving allyl isothiocyanate derived from mustard essential oil reduced the spread of bladder cancer cells.
More research is needed to determine how mustard oil and its components promote cancer growth in people.