Bulk Herbs: Mustard Seed, Brown (Organic)
Brassica nigra
Format: Seeds
Size: 1 oz package
Also known as: Brassica nigra, black mustard, Chinese mustard, and Indian mustard. Brassica integrifolia and Brassica juncea have similar taste and medicinal properties and are also sold as brown mustard.
Farming: Organic
Location: India
Strictly speaking, the Brassica nigra often sold as brown mustard is a “black” mustard. The reason it is called “brown” is that the other species of black mustard are difficult to harvest and are seldom available in commerce. Brown mustard is a flowering plant in the same family as arugula, horseradish, watercress, and wasabi. It shares with them a hot and pungent group of chemicals known as isothiocyanates. The isothiocyanates act as defense system against grazing animals by releasing burning chemicals when the plant is chewed. They destroy animal tissues. They would also destroy the tissues of the plant except that they are stored in a form that is only activated when the plant is disturbed Like all seeds, brown mustard seed contains large amounts of oil.
The term “mustard oil” can refer to the expressed oil, used in cooking, or to an extract of the flavoring principles, the isothiocyanates. Brown mustard seed contains about 1% sinigrin (allylglucosinolate), which is converted to the hot and pungent allyl isothiocyanate by the action of the enzyme myrosinase.
NOTE: Keep away from eyes. If contact occurs, immediately rinse with warm (not hot or cold) tap water.
In magick, Mustard seed is ruled by Mars and Fire - a powerful combination indeed! It is generally sprinkled for protection or buried under the doorstep. When eaten, it is said to improve fertility in women. As with all mars herbs, a little goes a long way!
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
