Black Mustard Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Black Mustard Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Black mustard is generally safe when consumed in the amounts commonly found in foods. It has been granted Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status by the US. However, there is limited reliable information about its safety for medicinal purposes, both orally and topically. During pregnancy, black mustard is likely unsafe when taken orally for medicinal reasons due to its potential abortifacient effects. Insufficient information is available regarding its safety during lactation.

How Does Black Mustard Work? What is the Mechanism of Action?

Black mustard's parts used include the seeds, oil, leaves (greens), and powder. The powder contains a compound called glucosinolate sinigrin, which turns into allyl isothiocyanate when mixed with warm water. This compound has various effects:

• Analgesic Effects: Diluted allyl isothiocyanate from sinigrin can act as a counterirritant, providing pain relief.
• Anticancer Effects: Black mustard extract and allyl isothiocyanate may slow cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis (cell death). However, sinigrin itself doesn't seem to have this effect.
• Antimicrobial Effects: Black mustard extract and allyl isothiocyanate exhibit antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Lung Decongestant Effects: Black mustard oil can be absorbed through the skin and eliminated via the lungs, making it useful in liniments for lung congestion.
• Vitality and Warming Effects: Research suggests that using black mustard powder in footbaths can enhance a sense of energy, warmth, and aliveness.

Pharmacokinetics

Black mustard oil is believed to be absorbed through the skin and eliminated via the lungs.

Interaction Overview (See Bottom of Page For Full List)

Antidiabetes Drugs: There's a moderate interaction risk. Black mustard seed might increase the chance of hypoglycemia when used with antidiabetes medications.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Orally, black mustard is generally well tolerated in food amounts. However, consuming very large amounts of black mustard seed can lead to severe adverse effects.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Unfortunately, there is not enough reliable information available about the standardization of black mustard supplements.

What Is Black Mustard Typically Used For?

Black mustard has a variety of traditional uses. It's used as a flavoring agent in condiments, foods, and beverages due to its seeds. The leaves and seeds have been utilized in medicine, historically as an emetic (to induce vomiting), diuretic, and appetite stimulant. Topically, it has been applied as a counterirritant. However, evidence supporting its effectiveness for conditions like the common cold, osteoarthritis, and acute pain is currently insufficient.

Remember that while black mustard has many potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and safety for different uses. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes.

Drugs that interact with Black Mustard