A fatty vegetable oil extracted from mustard seeds, mustard oil has been part of Indian kitchens for long. The dark yellow colour and the pungent flavour make it extremely popular in a few regions of India.

If you’re regularly changing oils to make your diet healthier, it’s time you brought home a bottle of mustard oil. Here’s why:

1. It provides cardiovascular benefits

   This oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats along with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These acids increase good cholesterol (HDL) and decreasing bad cholesterol (LDL), reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

2. It can cut the risk of cancer 

   The presence of Glucosinolate, known for its anti-carcinogenic properties, suppresses genes that support the formation of cancerous tumours. The phytonutrients protect against colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers.

3. It benefits those with asthma

   Mustard oil has been used as a natural remedy for asthma and sinusitis for long. Massaging the chest with mustard oil during an attack improve air flow to the lungs and allows easy breathing. Consuming a teaspoon of mustard oil with sugar/honey every day is also said to be beneficial.

4. It works as a decongestant

   The oil is a natural remedy for coughs and colds as it helps clear congestion. Mix it with camphor, apply on the chest and breathe in the vapours. Alternately, you can try mustard oil steam treatment to warm up the respiratory system and clear phlegm.

5. It increases the appetite

   Mustard oil stimulates the gastric juices in the stomach and increases hunger by working on the intestinal lining. Using it as a cooking medium is recommended for those with a poor appetite.

6. It aids in digestion

   The pungent oil works as a powerful stimulant for the digestive, circulatory and excretory system. It stimulates secretion of digestive juices and bile from the spleen and liver.

7. It helps relieve pain

   A massage with mustard oil – known for its anti-inflammatory properties – is recommended to rid you of rheumatic and arthritic pain. It can also soothe sprained ankles and other joint aches and pains. The presence of a trace mineral called selenium helps relieve joint and skin inflammation.

8. It makes it easier to go 

   The consumption of mustard oil can help reduce inflammation in the lining of the stomach, providing relief from irritable bowel syndrome. It also fights bacterial infections in the intestines, urinary tract and colon.

9. It keeps your skin healthy

   Regular massage with mustard oil, especially during winter, is recommended for glowing skin. It has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can help treat rashes and infections naturally.

Mustard oil comprises about 60 percent monounsaturated fats (MUFA), 21 percent polyunsaturated fats (PUFA) and 12 percent saturated fats. A tablespoon has 125 calories. Isn’t it time you got home a bottle?