Nutmeg (Jaiphal) Benefits

The aromatic spice, nutmeg benefits your health by improving appetite, curing digestive problems, reducing flatulence, relaxing the muscles, controlling asthma, etc.

Moreover, nutmeg oil is useful in dealing with aches and pains. However, it should be taken in small amounts to avoid its side effects.

Apart from the medicinal benefits, nutmeg or Jaiphal is also used for culinary purposes because of its warm, savory flavor and sweet, cinnamon-like smell. Interestingly, this herb is considered as a good-luck charm for gambling.

Basically, nutmeg (Jaiphal) is an egg-shaped seed from nutmeg fruit. The seed has a dried red lacy membrane known as mace; it is the sister spice of nutmeg. Both the spices have similar sensory qualities, but mace has a finer aroma and flavor than nutmeg.

This is a baking spice that is usually available in powdered form but mostly, freshly ground nutmeg is preferred.

The spice should be stored in airtight containers and should be kept away from moisture, heat and direct sunlight to avoid loss of aroma and flavor. One nutmeg seed can be grated to get two to three teaspoons of ground nutmeg.

Scientific Name: Myristica fragrans (Houtt.)
Common Names: Jaiphal, Jaivitri, Jawzat, Pala, Muskatbaum, Muscadier, Nuez Moscadaetc, etc.

Native Region

This herb is native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia. In addition, it is cultivated in Grenada, India, Malaysia, West Indies and Sri Lanka. The plant comes under the Myristicaceae family.

Healing Properties

Nutmeg is a carminative, stimulant, deobstruent, antimicrobial, anti inflammatory, antispasmodic, psychoactive and aphrodisiac properties. Besides, Jaiphal or nutmeg benefits the cardiovascular system.

On the downside, though, this herb is also considered as a pseudo-hallucinogen. It contains myristicin, a poisonous narcotic. Thus, it should be taken in small quantities.

Coming to the benefits of nutmeg, it aids in digestion, provides relief from diarrhea and prevents flatulence and stomach gas. It is useful in curing skin issues such as Eczema andAcne. Plus, it helps eliminate bad breath and is also used in various cough syrups.

Furthermore, nutmeg or Jaiphal improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. Besides, it helps in the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia and impotence. Moreover, this therapeutic herb can be used for detoxification of the liver and kidneys.

Nutmeg oil is rich in eugenol, which helps relieve joint pains. The herb is often included in sex tonics for treating debility. Nutmeg essential oil usually blends well with geranium, rosemary, cypress, clary sage, black pepper and orange.

In terms of nutritional value, nutmeg contains plant derived chemical compounds rich in antioxidants. Plus, it contains essential oils like dipentene, pinene, sabinene, terpeniol, etc.

Furthermore, nutmeg (Jaiphal) includes vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, niacin and riboflavin. The herb is also a good source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.

Uses of Nutmeg or Jaiphal

• • Take a finely powdered mixture of two teaspoons of nutmeg and a quarter teaspoon of dried ginger. Before meals, consume 1/8 teaspoon of this mixture with some warm water.
  AdvertisementThis is one of the most effective nutmeg home remedies for flatulence and gas. Besides, you can prepare an herbal tea by adding crushed cardamom pods (three to four), and a pinch of dried ginger and nutmeg.
• • To cure diarrhea at home, take one tablespoon of poppy seeds, two tablespoons of sugar, half a teaspoon each of cardamom powder and nutmeg and one teaspoon of edible gum.
  Grind this mixture and have the resultant powder every two hours. Infants can be given apple stew mixed with one teaspoon of sugar and two pinches of nutmeg powder.
• • Nutmeg benefits in the home treatment of Eczema by applying a thin paste of grated nutmeg mixed with water.
  
  
• • For healing acne, you can apply a mixture of nutmeg powder and raw milk for about half an hour and then wash it off with lukewarm water.
  Combination of one teaspoon each of nutmeg powder and honey is useful in getting rid ofacne scars and face blemishes.
  
  
• • Application of a mixture of nutmeg oil (10 drops) and almond oil (10 ml) helps relieve rheumatic pain. For sciatica pain, you can boil, strain, cool and then apply a combination of three tablespoons of nutmeg powder and a cup of sesame oil.
  Here’s a video showing how to use nutmef for aromatherapy.
  When applied on chest, it helps relieve congestion. Similarly, nutmeg oil can be used in reducing toothache.
  
  
• • Massaging the forehead and temples with a solution of nutmeg oil mixed with any carrier oil such as rosemary oil serves as an efficient home remedy for headache.
  
  
• • Consuming three to five drops of nutmeg oil mixed with a teaspoon of honey or some sugar is beneficial in getting rid of nausea and indigestion.
  
  
• • Inhaling nutmeg oil serves as one of the most useful natural home remedies for stress, anxiety and depression.
  Besides, applying a paste of nutmeg powder and clarified butter on the forehead before going to bed works as a valuable solution for insomnia. Alternatively, you can add 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground nutmeg in a cup of milk.
  
  
• • When dealing with cold and nasal congestion, take a combination of equal quantities of nutmeg and cinnamon powder in the morning and evening.

Apart from these medicinal uses, nutmeg (Jaiphal) is also used while cooking pies, puddings, cookies, etc. In addition, it can be added in soups and cheese sauces.

This valuable herb is used in perfumes and ointments, too. Besides, it is believed that nutmeg helps induce lucidity in dreams .

Precautions

When consumed in excess, nutmeg or Jaiphal can give rise to problems like lack of concentration, restlessness, elation and hallucination. Other symptoms of side effects includestomach pain, nausea, double vision, palpitation and delirium.

Besides, it may cause allergy and trigger asthma. Large doses can even cause coma and death.

Thus, although nutmeg (Jaiphal) benefits in providing relief from a number of health issues, you should take it sparingly in small doses (not more than 3 to 10 grams).

5 home remedies to treat gout effectively

Gout is an inflammatory disease characterized by increased blood uric acid levels in the body. As is the case with other lifestyle diseases, unhealthy eating habits and an inactive lifestyle are considered to be the key factors responsible for gout. Due to the formation of uric acid crystals within the joints, people experience excruciating pain and swelling in the affected areas. Although there are many treatment options available for gout, recurrent gout attacks prompt people to seek other effective natural aids to relieve inflammation. Here are the top 5 home remedies that may ease pain and swelling, common in gout patients –

Cherries

The anti-inflammatory property of cherries in the treatment of gout has been proved by many research studies. The compound called allopurinol present in cherries is responsible for alleviating the uric acid levels in the body, in addition to lowering the risk of gout attacks. Read about health benefits of cherries

Tip: Eat around 15 – 20 cherries daily or drink a glass of cherry juice to lower pain and inflammation.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar, commonly used to treat headaches and stomach problems is effective in relieving pain observed in gout patients. It is the anti-inflammatory activity and acidity of this vinegar which helps to treat gout and arthritis. Read about tips to relieve gout pain.

Tip: People suffering from gout can drink a glass of water mixed with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or have some of this vinegar with honey daily to get relief.

Banana

Bananas are one of the powerful natural remedies and they are extremely effective in treating gout. Bananas contain high levels of potassium which help in conversion of uric acid crystals into the liquid form, thereby helping flush them out of the body. Read more about health benefits of banana

Tip: Consume at least two bananas every day to manage joint pain and improve your condition.

Ginger

Ginger contains a wide range of anti-inflammatory compounds which may help in reducing swelling and inflammation seen in gout patients. Being analgesic in nature, ginger (raw as well as dried) also relieves arthritic pain. Read more about the health benefits of ginger.

Tip: Add one teaspoon of ginger powder (or few pieces of raw ginger) in a glass of water and drink this daily to get relief from joint pain and swelling.

Lemon juice

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that helps in neutralizing the excess uric acids levels in gout patients. One of the best food sources of vitamin C is lemon juice. This can help alkalise the body and provide relief from gout pain. Read more about health benefits of lemon juice.

Tip: Squeeze half a lemon in a glass of water and drink it twice a day to ease pain and swelling in gout patients. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to the juice.

5 natural alternatives to sleep medication

Stress, depression and anxiety are the major modern day factors responsible for sleep deprivation and troubled sleep. Apart from these clinical conditions, medications used to treat other health complications like blood pressure, weight loss and heart diseases also cause insomnia. Although medications (sleeping pills) are commonly used to treat insomnia, there is a high risk of dependence and other side effects associated with pharmaceutical sleeping aids. Natural treatments and home remedies for insomnia and other sleep disorders can come in handy in such a scenario, as many of them actually do work and most of them do not pose any significant health risk. Here are few natural remedies you can try if you suffer from sleep problems –

Foods

In case you are struggling for a good nights sleep, drink a glass of warm milk by either adding almonds to it or eating a fruit after drinking the milk. This is because milk contains tryptophan which helps in increasing the blood levels of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that induce sleep. Additionally, consuming foods like bananas and flaxseeds that are rich in magnesium and cherries containing melatonin, helps you sleep faster by acting as a natural aid.

Herbal medicines

Lavender oil exerts a calming effect on the body and mind, in addition to inducing sleep in some people suffering from insomnia. Have a bath before going to bed by adding few drops of this oil in hot water, as this should help you sleep well. Other medicinal herbs that are commonly used to treat insomnia are valerian root, passion flower and chamomile.

Exercise

Whether or not you suffer from insomnia or have trouble sleeping, indulge in exercising on a regular basis and experience the difference. It has been proved by many research studies that regular exercise improves quality of sleep in young as well as older people along with improving your health condition. Make sure that you complete your exercises well in advance before sleeping however(around 3 – 4 hours before sleep), in order to avoid interference with sleep.

Meditation and yoga

Meditation, yoga and relaxation are effective treatments to deal with insomnia as these alternative techniques are aimed at calming the mind and relaxing muscles. These techniques have become emerging treatment options for people suffering with insomnia due to their effectiveness in inducing sleep. With regular meditation, the blood levels of hormone melatonin increases resulting in better regulation of sleep.   

Lifestyle changes

One of the most common factors responsible for a lack of sleep are watching TV till late night, working in shifts, bright lights in your bedroom and bad eating habits. By making few lifestyle changes to your routine like walking around after eating, switching off the TV at least an hour before sleeping and keeping your bedroom surroundings as dark as possible are a few ways to combat sleep problems.   

Top 5 home remedies for toenail fungus

Toenail fungus, medically termed as onychomycosis is the most common fungal infection of the feet and fingernails. The infection of the toenail is mainly caused due to skin or nail injuries, but people with moist feet or those who sweat a lot and those wearing closed-in footwear are also at a higher risk of acquiring this fungal infection. Although anti-fungal medications are generally prescribed to combat fungal growth and infection, there are few effective home remedies that can be of great help –

Turmeric (Haldi)

Turmeric is undoubtedly one of the best and most effective anti-fungal agents. This natural remedy also possesses antiseptic properties that help in inhibiting the fungal growth thereby curing the infection in a safe way. Apply thick turmeric paste (turmeric power and water/lemon juice) on the affected toenail regularly for few days for better results. Read more about the health benefits of turmeric.

Neem

Neem is packed with powerful anti-fungal properties which help in combating the fungal infection in an effective manner. Known as nature’s medicinal herb, neem leaves or oil can work wonders in treating infected nails. For instant results, apply a few drops of neem oil or neem paste topically on the infected nail three times in a day. Read about health benefits of neem.

Lemon

Known for its far-reaching antiseptic, antifungal, antioxidant and astringent properties, lemonis an excellent natural remedy for treating fungal infection of toenails. In addition to fighting fungal infections in an effective manner, this vitamin C loaded fruit helps in restoring the natural colour of the nail. Apply lemon juice directly onto the infected area regularly for quick results. Read more about the health benefits of lemon.

Apple cider vinegar

Easily available in every household, apple cider vinegar can be used to treat fungal infections in a quicker way. It is the potent antifungal property of this vinegar that helps in curing toenail fungus naturally. To use this natural remedy, wash your feet with water and then apply vinegartopically on your infected nail. Alternatively, add a few drops of vinegar to a hot water tub and soak your foot for around 30 minutes and then dry carefully with a towel. Read about the health benefits of vinegar

Tea tree oil

Known for its strong antiseptic, anti-fungal and astringent properties, tea tree oil is a perfect natural remedy to treat toenail fungus. This oil not only helps in quick healing of the infection, but it is also very effective in preventing the infection from recurring. Apply tea tree oil directly to the infected toenail or soak your foot in hot water (with tea tree oil) at least two times a day to get quick results. Read about other benefits of tea tree oil

Ebola in India: Are there any natural remedies for the virus?

There are a number of bogus natural cures for  Ebola doing the rounds, but the only thing that these rumours have done is to cause the disease to spread further. A recent news report stated that the Ebola virus would never have spread to Sierra Leone, had it not been for one herbalist claiming that she can cure the disease. Her claims caused large numbers of people, suffering from the disease, to travel to the region in the hopes of getting cured. While she died due to the infection, her claims  led to the spread of the disease. So, to set the record straight, here are 5 reasons herbal or natural remedies will not help cure you of an infection due to the Ebola virus.

It is caused by a virus

Virus are organisms that have the ability to mutate and adapt very quickly, to medications, atmospheric conditions and other changes. This is one of the reasons that researchers find it extremely difficult to find a cure for infections caused due to viruses. This is the reason that there is no cure for the common cold; caused due to a virus, the ailment cannot be cured and only the symptoms can be treated. While there are natural remedies to relieve the symptoms of other viral conditions, the important thing to remember here is that these remedies only help to lessen the intensity of the symptoms (for example, in the case of a cold and cough you may have ginger and honey to help reduce a sore throat) but they, in NO way, can cure you of the disease.

Ebola infection spreads and kills too quickly

Once a person is infected with the virus, its incubation period (the time between the first contact with the virus to the time when it shows symptoms) is anywhere between 2 to 21 days. After which it is known to kill a person within approximately 7 days – making it an extremely fast moving virus. This property makes it highly unlikely that any natural remedy or home remedy would help stop the virus, because most natural remedies take a while to show results and with the speed of the viral spread, no natural remedy can help.

Natural remedies might make the condition worse

There have been studies that show that some natural remedies and medicines exert a certain amount of load on a person’s kidneys and liver. This excessive pressure on the working of these organs can make the condition worse. Another point to consider is the fact that upon infection, the virus debilitates the working of the liver in order to survive. Therefore, if one does use natural remedies to try and recover from the condition they may end up causing further damage to their organs.

Strengthening your immune system won’t help

The Ebola virus is extremely potent and is known to infect even those with a robust immune system. Therefore using common remedies to help improve your immune system will not help. While you can take precautions and stay in good health, trying to cure the condition with natural remedies (like tulsi) will not help. (Read more: Latest Ebola News: Has the Ebola virus really come to India?

No scientific study to prove that natural remedies work

There are a number of myths about things that might work to help keep the infection at bay, or help cure the disease, but there is no scientific data to prove their efficacy.

Finally, the Ebola virus is definitely something to worry about, but as the virus has not yet affected India, there is no need to panic. If you do notice the symptoms please do visit a doctor immediately. Do not fall for false information doing the rounds.

10 health benefits of mustard

Most Indian households use mustard seeds or its oil for various purposes. You could use mustard sauce to spice up various foods, while the oil could be used for a number of purposes including cooking. The powdered form of the seed can be used for either garnishing a dish or as an integral part of a dip. The whole seed is commonly used as tadka.

Apart from just adding flavour to your food, the seeds have always been known for their medicinal properties. Here are some of the better known ones:

Can help control symptoms of asthma: Mustard seeds are high in selenium and magnesium. Both the components give it a unique anti inflammatory property. Consumed regularly, it is known to control and keep the symptoms of asthma, cold and chest congestion at bay.

Can help you lose weight:  The wonder seeds are packed with B-complex vitamins like folates, niacin, thiamine, riboflavin etc. Apart from all the individual merits of these components, they are great in speeding up one’s metabolism leading to weight loss.

Can slow ageing: Mustard is a great source of carotenes, zeaxanthins and lutein (also called flavonoid and caretonoid antioxidants) vitamin A,C and K. All these components put together make it rich in antioxidants which in turn slows the ageing process

Protects you from gastrointestinal cancer: Packed with phytonutrients, mustard seeds are a great way to prevent and slow the progress of  cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that mustard seeds have properties that can restrict the growth of already present cancer cells and prevent the formation of new cancers.

Relieves rheumatoid, arthritic and muscle pain: The selenium and magnesium content of mustard lend it anti inflammatory and heat producing properties. When applied to the body, the paste heats up the area and helps loosen muscles, leading to relief from pain.

Health.india.com tip: To ease pain make a small bundle of the seeds in a muslin cloth, and add it to warm bath water. Either have a long relaxing bath, or soak your tired and aching feet for instant relief. Another great way is to apply the paste of the seed on the area for a few minutes.

Lowers cholesterol: Mustard contains high levels of niacin or vitamin B3. Niacin has properties that help lower one’s cholesterol levels and protects the arteries fromatherosclerosis (plaque build-up). It also helps to regulate blood flow and protects the body from hypertension.

Stimulates hair growth: For centuries mustard oil has been known to stimulate hair growth. It  is known to be packed with vitamins and minerals, but what makes the difference is the high amount of beta carotene it contains. During oil production, beta carotene gets converted to vitamin A, which is excellent for hair growth. Apart from this, it also contains iron, fatty acids, calcium and magnesium, all of which promote hair growth.

Health.india.com tip: Using mustard oil once a week for  a warm oil massage is a great way to relieve stress, symptoms of dandruff and promote hair growth. After you apply the oil, wrap your hair in a thin plastic bag or a warm towel to increase absorption of the oil into the scalp. Leave it for about half an hour to forty five minutes and then wash off. The oil has a strong odour and is thick in consistency, so make sure you use a good shampoo.

Helps reduce constipation and may relieve symptoms of piles and fissures:  The seeds contain a unique substance called mucilage which is a thick slimy substance that is the key to relieving constipation. Apart from that, it is also high in fibre. In addition, mustard seeds are known to increase the production of saliva, leading to better digestion.

Health.india.com tip: Have one teaspoon of mustard seeds two to three times a day to relieve constipation.

Fights skin infections: Packed with sulphur, mustard seeds are a great way to curb skin infections. Sulphur gives the seed anti fungal and anti bacterial properties that help fight common skin ailments.

Improves immunity: Because mustard has a large number of elemental minerals like iron, manganese, copper etc., it helps improve the body’s ability to fight disease.

Lastly, always remember to use mustard seeds in moderation. Even though it has great healing properties, it can also be toxic in large quantities. Make sure you ask your physician before you self medicate. 

Want to try using mustard in a dish? Here are the recipes for a yummy aachari dip and a healthy, exotic cabbage and pineapple salad by Tarla Dalal.

17 Amazing Benefits Of Mustard Seeds For Skin, Hair And Health

Mustard seeds are a very popular ingredient in the American cuisine. These seeds are used for taste generally in hot dogs, where mustard sauce is very much preferred. It also has medicinal applications dating back to the time of Hippocrates. It is available in white, brown and black varieties and is used by people all over the world. Greeks, Romans, Asians and Africans have all explored the taste of mustard seeds and have integrated them into their cuisines. Mustard seeds also find their place in the Bible and their first usage record is found in the Sanskrit scripts that date back to thousands of years.

In this article, we shall talk about the present day uses of mustard seeds!

Mustard Seeds Benefits

Health Benefits Of Mustard Seeds:

Apart from the taste benefits of mustard seeds and the easy availability that made them popular, one can find a number of mustard seed benefits for our health too. Some of the mustard seeds health benefits are mentioned below.

1. Cancer treatment:

The presence of compounds like glucosinolates and mirosinase in mustard seeds are known to use phytochemicals to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. This is definitely a major mustard seeds health benefit.

2. Rheumatic arthritis:

Mustard seeds are a source of relief for people having rheumatic arthritis. The selenium and magnesium content in it helps in providing relief from this problem.

3. Migraine:

Migraine occurrence also reduces owing to the magnesium content present in the mustard seed. A little touch of mustard to your fish can boost the constituting omega-3 content.

4. Respiration congestion:

Mustard seeds or mustard in general is known to relieve any congestion problems in respiration.

5. Nightshades:

Mustard seeds should find an inclusion in your list of daily spices if you want to avoid nightshades.

6. Disease prevention:

There are certain nutrients in mustard seeds that prevent diseases from occurring. They are all a part of the basic structure of the Brassica family to which mustard belongs.

7. Dietary fibre:

Mustard seeds are a good source of dietary fibres that improve digestion in the body. They make the bowel movements better, thus improving the overall metabolism of the body. The fibre content here is mostly very readily soluble making it effective for use.

8. Cancer risk prevention:

Selenium content in mustard seeds provides good resistance to the body against cancer cell formation. It is known to slow down the rate of development of cancer cells and also acts as an anti-oxidant.

9. Blood pressure and Menopausal relief:

A number of nutrients present in mustard seeds like copper, iron, magnesium and selenium also assist in the treatment of blood pressure and menopause relief.

10. Asthma:

Mustard seeds are also known to be beneficial for Asthma patients. The presence of minerals like copper, magnesium, iron and selenium in it are responsible for the prevention of Asthma Attacks.

Skin Benefits Of Mustard Seeds 

11. Natural scrub: Mustard seeds are a natural scrub. You can add it to either lavender or rose essential oil. Use this mix to scrub your face and exfoliate dead skin.

12. Hydrates skin: Mustard seeds, used with aloe vera gel, can act as a great combination to hydrate your skin. It removes all impurities from your face and nourishes it from within.

13. Slows ageing: Mustard seeds make for a great source of carotene and lutein. It is also a great power house of vitamin A, C and K. Together these nutrients make for an excellent antioxidant.

14. Fights infections: These seeds contain a good amount of sulphur which is known for its anti-fungal properties. They help ward off skin infections.

Hair Benefits Of Mustard Seeds

15. Hair growth: Mustard oil, extracted from mustard seeds, is a good source of Vitamin A. Vitamin A is a great nutrient for hair growth. It is also a great stimulant which leads to faster hair growth.

16. Strengthens hair: Mustard seeds contain protein, calcium, vitamin A and E, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. All of these together strengthen your hair from within. Strengthened hair means lesser hair fall too.

17. Conditions: Mustard seeds contain fatty acids. These are known to condition your hair from deep within. It also gives hair a good shine and bounce.

Other uses

1. Removes Odour: If your jars start to smell like the spices or ingredients you store in them, using mustard seeds can help. Warm a little water and add it to the jar. Also add a little mustard seed paste to the jar and shake it well. Pour it out. You would be surprised how the smell goes away.
2. Relieves Muscle Pains: Stiff muscles or sore and aching muscles can be treated with mustard seeds too. Just soak yourself in a tub of warm water. Now add some mustard seeds powder to the same to relieve pain.
3. Treats Cold: Mustard is often used to relieve congestion caused by bad cough or cold.
4. Treats Back Pain: The extract of mustard seeds is useful in relieving spasms and back pain.
5. Treats Fever: Mustard seeds induce heavy sweating, which is used to lower fever. It helps release the toxins from the body and has been useful in flu and cold too.

How to select mustards seeds

1. Always try and buy organically-grown mustard seeds.
2. Check for manufacturing dates.
3. Check the expiry date.

How to store

1. Always store mustard seeds in a cool place.
2. Store it in an air-tight container so that it is sealed properly.
3. The container must be completely dry.
4. The shelf where you place the container should not be moist.
5. Whole mustard seeds can last up to one year (at least) and powdered or ground ones last as long as six months.

How to use

1. Mustard seeds are largely used for tempering dishes.
2. It is also used in non-vegetarian dishes to enhance the taste of meats and fishes.
3. It can also be used for pickling and in chutneys.
4. Another great way of putting mustard seeds to use is in salad dressings.
5. Brown mustard seeds are used for garnishing, once sautéed in oil a little.
6. Make sure you don’t overcook mustard seeds or their taste may turn bitter.

Interesting facts about mustard seeds

1. Mustard seeds belong to the mustard plant. Mustard plant is a part of cruciferous plant family. This same family of plant includes cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and even cauliflower.
2. Mustard seed is the second most popular spice that is traded around the world.
3. Mustard has been mentioned around 5 times in the Bible. It has once been mentioned as the greatest herb ever.

Recipes using mustard seeds

1. Mustard seeds rice:

• Boil some rice.
• Right before serving, temper a little ghee in a pan, add yellow, white and brown mustard seeds.
• Add some cumin seeds.
• Once they start to splutter, add rice and serve immediately.
• Mustard seeds will add a new flavour to the rice.
• Serve it hot with other vegetables, curry or dal.

2. Mustard seeds dip sauce:

• Add mustard seeds, honey and few other seasonings of your choice together.
• This would make for a pungent yet sweet tasting dip.

3. Cabbage with mustard seeds:

• Chop some cabbage and onions.
• Heat some oil. Sprinkle mustard seeds all over and cover the lid immediately.
• Wait till the seeds settle down and stop spluttering or popping.
• Now add cabbage and onions.
• Heat it on a medium flame.
• Now cook it till the cabbage turns a little tender and add salt to taste.
• Serve it as a crunchy side dish.
• It can also be used as a filling in quesadillas.
• Many people add this to pasta by tossing it along and make it a main dish.
• The next time you use mustard seeds, remember you’re having a plateful of benefits. Hope you can put the information shared through this article to use. Please leave us your comments below. Thank you!

Mustard Seeds USDA Nutrition Chart:

Principle	Nutrient Value	Percentage of RDA
Energy	508 Kcal	25%
Carbohydrates	28.09 g	21%
Protein	26.08 g	46%
Total Fat	36.24 g	121%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Dietary Fiber	12.2 g	32%
Vitamins
Folates	162 µg	40%
Niacin	4.733 mg	30%
Pantothenic acid	0.810 mg	16%
Pyridoxine	0.397 mg	31%
Riboflavin	0.261 mg	20%
Thiamin	0.805 mg	67%
Vitamin A	31 IU	1%
Vitamin C	7.1 mg	12%
Vitamin E-γ	19.82 mg	132%
Vitamin K	5.4 µg	4%
Electrolytes
Sodium	13 mg	1%
Potassium	738 mg	16%
Minerals
Calcium	266 mg	27%
Copper	0.645 mg	71%
Iron	9.21 mg	115%
Magnesium	370 mg	92%
Manganese	2.448 mg	106%
Selenium	208.1 µg	378%
Zinc	6.08 mg	55%
Phyto-nutrients
Carotene-ß	18 µg	–
Crypto-xanthin-ß	0 µg	–
Lutein-zeaxanthin	508 µg	–

Mustard seeds of weight 11 grams in one serving contain the following nutrients.

• It has 52 calories, 3 grams fat, 1mg sodium, 0mg cholesterol, 2 grams of carbohydras and 3 grams of proteins.

• Apart from this, the dietary value of Calcium, iron, vitamin C, Vitamin A are 65, 6%, 1% and 0% respectively in this quantity.