Mustard Oil for Weight Loss Benefits and Side Effects,  is one of the staple ingredients in every Indian household. Mustard seeds are loaded with B-complex vitamins like niacin and riboflavin. Mustard oil acts as a healthier substitute for refined oils. But how does mustard oil aid weight loss? Niacin and riboflavin in mustard seeds help increase metabolism and thus, help you to lose that extra weight. Apart from this Mustard oils has various other benefits:

1. Aids in digestion

Mustard oil helps easy digestion of food and leads to an increased metabolic rate.

2. Helps relieve pain

Mustard oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps bring relief to rheumatic and arthritic pain. It also works well for joint pains. In a study conducted by Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany, it was found that mustard oil helps relieve pain in mice.

3. Works as a decongestant

Mustard oil brings relief to common cold and flu. It is one of the most widely used home remedies for the same. The oil is rubbed on the hands and soles of the person. It decongests when applied on the chest area.

4. Cardiovascular benefits

Mustard oil has abundant monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and healthy fatty acids. Mustard Oil for Weight Loss Benefits and Side Effects They provide vital nutrients to the body. This helps in increasing the good cholesterol levels and maintaining a good cardiovascular health. According to a study conducted by AIIMS and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, it was found that mustard oil can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 70%.

5. May prevent cancer

Mustard oil has a compound called Glucosinolate, known for its anti-carcinogenic properties. The said compound helps to prevent colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers.

6. Brings relief to asthma patients

In case of an asthma attack, massaging the chest with mustard oil has the ability to improve air flow. Regular intake of mustard oils also boosts immunity.

7. Keeps your skin healthy

In winters, mustard oil helps to keep the skin warm and prevents it from dryness. It helps prevent infections due to antibacterial and antifungal properties. It brings a natural glow to your skin.

Ways to use

1. Massage mustard oil directly or dilute it with lighter oils. It can be used as mosquito repellent or to relieve pain.
2. Massage mustard oil on your hair. It helps bring shine and volume to your hair.
3. Mustard oil can be used to make DIY face packs along with turmeric, gram flour, and cream. It helps heal dry and chapped skin.
4. Apply Mustard oil mixed with powdered fenugreek on your scalp to prevent dandruff.

Expert Tips

Experts at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, in their study published in the Journal of Preventive Cardiology, suggested that mustard can prevent cardiovascular diseases by 70%. Dr. CB Singh, a homeopathic consultant, deems mustard oil to be a better pick than most refined oils.