From boosting immunity to improving heart health, 5 incredible benefits of mustard oil
The coronavirus pandemic has made us all more than cautious about our health. From eating right to trying different kadha recipes, people have left no stone unturned when it comes to boosting their immunity.
But a slew of Indian manufacturers have been advertising food products ranging from cereals, biscuits, honey and some Ayurvedic formulations that promise to boost your immunity.
Experts in the field have cautioned customers against these claims, saying such shortcuts for boosting body's defence is not an ideal solution.
However experts agree that the use of mustard oil in cooking and for non-edible purposes works wonders as an immunity booster.
Mustard oil has been used traditionally and is full of health benefits. The oil is loaded with monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) that are essential for maintaining a healthy cholesterol balance in the body. Mustard oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid, which protects our cardiovascular health.
The oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties and helps the digestive tract from harmful infections.
The optimum range of omega 3, omega 5 fatty acids and vitamin E provides the body with required nutritive value and boosts the immune system.
Here are 5 health benefits of mustard oil
It works as an immunity booster
The pungent property of mustard oil makes it useful in clearing congestion and blocked sinuses. Home remedies like heated mustard oil with garlic cloves can provide relief from cough and cold when rubbed on soles of the feet and chest.
Strengthens red blood cells
Mustard oil is a major source of all the fats required by our body to perform diverse biological functions as components of plasma, cell lipids and cell membrane.
The oil helps in reducing cholesterol and improves the membrane structure of the red blood cell.
Has cardioprotective effects
Studies have shown that consumption of mustard oil has shown a reduction in arrhythmias, heart failure and angina. Mustard oil is considered a healthy choice for people with cardiovascular disorders.
It also helps by lowering triglycerides, blood pressure and inflammation.
Helps in reducing cough and cold
Since ancient times, mustard oil has been used to soothe a cough, cold and other respiratory allergies and illnesses.
Inhaling steam with mustard oil has shown to clear respiratory congestion. Also, a concoction made by heating mustard oil, a few cloves of garlic and ajwain when massaged on the feet and chest provides relief from cough and cold.
Mustard oil has also shown positive effects on people suffering from sinusitis.
Provides relief from joint pain and arthritis
Massaging regularly with mustard oil helps in relieving aching muscles and joints. The omega 3 present in mustard oil helps in easing stiffness and pain caused due to arthritis.
With inputs from IANS