Mustard Seeds

Biological Source : Brassica nigra

Family : Brassicaceae

Mustard seeds are from the mustard plant, which is a cruciferous vegetable related to broccoli, brussels sprouts and cabbage. While there are approximately forty different varieties of mustard plants, there are three principal types used to make mustard seeds; black mustard (Brassica nigra), white mustard (Brassica alba) and brown mustard (Brassica juncea). Mustard seeds have been highly prized culinary oil-seeds in use since earlier times. The seeds are fruit pods obtained from mustard plant, in the Brassica family.

Culinary Uses of Mustard Seeds

• Mustards exude pungent nutty flavor when gently roasted under low flame.
• Brown as well white mustards are used in pickling with raw mango, bitter gourd, etc, in India.
• Mustard fish curry, prepared with thin mustard paste, coriander powder, chilies and nigella is popular in Bangladesh and West Bengal in Indian subcontinent.
• Different kind of mustards employ mustard seeds mixed with herbs, spices, honey, tomato, etc., in many parts of the world.
• Mustard paste is used in salad dressings, sandwiches, and hot dogs and in mayonnaise.
• American yellow mustard is prepared with white seeds, vinegar, spices, turmeric and sugar.
• Mustard oil is one of popular cooking oils used in many North Indian and Pakistani recipes.

Health Benefits of Mustard Seeds

1. Mustard Seeds is used as a phytonutrient Compound Protective Against Gastrointestinal Cancer
2. Mustard Seeds has an Anti-Inflammatory Effects from Selenium and Magnesium
3. Mustard seeds are an excellent source of essential B-complex vitamins such as folates, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, pyridoxine (vitaminB-6), pantothenic acid. These vitamins are essential in the sense that body requires them from external sources to replenish. These B-complex groups of vitamins help in enzyme synthesis, nervous system function and regulating body metabolism.
4. Mustard seeds contain flavonoid and carotenoid antioxidants such as carotenes, zea-xanthin, and lutein. In addition, the seeds compose a small amount of vitamin anti-oxidants such as vitamin A, C, and vitamin K.
5. Mustards are rich source of health benefiting minerals. Calcium, manganese, copper, iron, selenium and zinc are some of the minerals especially concentrated in these seeds. Calcium helps build bone and teeth. Manganese is employed by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.