The discovery of field mustard
Field mustard (Sinapis arvensis), also known as wild mustard, is a plant that has been prized for centuries for its medicinal properties. Originally native to Europe and Asia, mustard spread around the world through trade and agriculture. The first written records of its use date back to ancient Greece, where it was used as a remedy for various ailments.
Dosage forms and dosage
Field mustard can be taken in various forms:
- Tea: The dried leaves and seeds can be brewed into a healing tea. One teaspoon of the dried plant parts is enough for a cup of hot water. Allow the tea to infuse for about 10 minutes.
- Capsules: Capsules containing field mustard extract are also available in pharmacies. The recommended dosage is 300-500 mg per day, depending on the concentration of the extract.
- Tincture: A tincture can be made from the fresh or dried parts of the plant. A common dosage is 10-20 drops in a glass of water, taken twice a day.
Field mustard: Curing diseases
Field mustard has many healing properties and can help with the following diseases:
- Respiratory diseases: thanks to its expectorant properties, it helps with colds, coughs and bronchitis. It makes it easier to cough up phlegm and relieves the urge to cough.
- Digestive problems: The plant has a digestive effect and can be used for flatulence, constipation and stomach cramps.
- Rheumatism and joint pain: It contains anti-inflammatory substances that can be applied externally in the form of compresses or ointments to relieve rheumatic complaints and joint pain.
- Skin disorders: Applied to the skin, it can help with eczema and skin irritations as it has an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect.
Effect on the body
The healing properties of field mustard are due to its numerous active ingredients:
- Mustard oil glycosides: these substances have an antibacterial and expectorant effect.
- Flavonoids: They have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect.
- Vitamins and minerals: It contains vitamin C and iron, which strengthen the immune system and support blood formation.
The combination of these ingredients supports the body in a variety of ways, from strengthening the immune system to relieving inflammation and pain.
Recommended intake and dietary supplement
Field mustard should only be taken after consulting a doctor or alternative practitioner, especially if it is being used to treat certain ailments. It makes sense to take it during the cold season as a preventative measure against colds and flu or for acute digestive complaints.
Not recommended intake
There are certain groups of people for whom the consumption of field mustard is not recommended:
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers: As the effects on the unborn child and infant have not been sufficiently researched, pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from consuming it.
- Children under 12 years of age: Caution should also be exercised with children, as dosage and possible side effects are not sufficiently known.
- People with stomach ulcers: The mucous membrane irritating properties can aggravate existing ulcers.
Complementary food supplements and medicinal plants
To support the effect of field mustard, the following dietary supplements and medicinal plants can also be taken:
- Probiotics: These support the intestinal flora and improve digestion, which can enhance the effect of digestive problems.
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger can supplement the effects of rheumatic complaints and colds.
- Vitamin C: In combination with field mustard, vitamin C can additionally strengthen the immune system.
Occurrence in food
Field mustard itself is rarely found in food, but mustard oils are found in other cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. These vegetables can have similar health-promoting effects and are therefore a good supplement.
Field mustard: side effects and overdose
Side effects are rare, but can occur in the form of gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea or diarrhea. In rare cases, external application may cause skin irritation.
An overdose can lead to severe gastrointestinal complaints and should therefore be avoided. At high dosages there is a risk of liver and kidney damage, therefore the recommended dosage should not be exceeded.
Field mustard: use in naturopathy
It is valued as a natural remedy in phytotherapy. It is mainly used for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and expectorant properties. As well as being used internally in the form of teas and tinctures, it is also used externally in ointments and compresses.
Conclusion
Field mustard is a versatile medicinal plant with numerous possible applications. Whether as a tea for colds, as a capsule to aid digestion or as a poultice for joint pain – the plant offers a natural alternative to synthetic medicines. However, caution is advised, especially for certain groups of people and with regard to dosage. Support from other medicinal plants and dietary supplements can further optimize the effect of field mustard.
