Mustard oil or sarson ka tel is something that can be found in every Indian household. We all have experienced a love-hate relationship with mustard oil because we know how useful and beneficial this oil is and yet hate it for its sticky and heavy texture. Many have replaced mustard oil with olive oil in their kitchen, but you may change your mind after reading these 5 amazing Ayurvedic benefits of mustard oil.

We have often used mustard oil to cook various delicacies and often shunned it too because of the talks that it might make you gain weight. But even if you don’t use it for cooking purposes, mustard oil has many benefits for your skin, hair, joint pain, etc. Especially, in Ayurveda the use of mustard oil is considered very beneficial for our health.

Dr. Anu Sreedhar K C, an Ayurvedic consultant, explains that Ayurveda bases its diagnosis on particular biological energy kinds known as Dosha. Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the three doshas. Your physical, mental, and even spiritual makeup is determined by the interaction of these Doshas. Mustard oil is used in Ayurveda to reduce Kapha and Vata and to raise Pitta.

Here are 5 Ayurvedic benefits of mustard oil:

1. Mustard oil treats joint pain and skin infections effectively

Mustard oil is an all-natural painkiller. “It quickly reduces inflammation and eliminates the source of joint discomfort. Since this oil brims with anti-inflammatory properties and stimulates blood flow throughout the body, it relieves arthritis aches when massaged on a daily basis,” says Dr Sreedhar.

She says mustard oil also has potent antibacterial and antifungal characteristics that can be used to treat a variety of skin illnesses, including rashes, itching, allergic responses, and other conditions.

2. Acts as a natural stimulant

Mustard oil is an extremely potent stimulant. A stimulant is a substance that raises levels of physiological and nervous system activity in the body which ends up boosting their energy. Dr Sreedhar explains that consuming mustard oil prompts the liver and spleen to release bile and digestive juices, which enhances the digestive system and gives us a boost of energy.

3. Fuels hair growth and prevents hair fall

By using mustard oil, you can also get its benefits for your dull, dry, and falling hair. According to the Ayurvedic expert mustard oil is high in protein and omega-3 unsaturated fats, which are two important supplements for hair development and nourishment. Furthermore, the oil’s antifungal and antibacterial characteristics help to prevent baldness and scalp problems including redness and irritation. Massaging your scalp with mustard oil mixed with coconut oil will help you treat dandruff and strengthen your hair roots which will lead to less hair fall.

4. Treats cracked heels, nails and promotes healthy skin

If you have cracked heels, cracked nails, or falling skin, a problem experienced especially in the winter season, application of mustard oil will give you magical results. If you only have a small amount of mustard oil on hand, you don’t need to rely on anything else.

“Mustard oil is high in vitamin B, which is beneficial for maintaining even, radiant, and healthy skin,” says Dr Sreedhar. Applying mustard oil, 15 minutes before bedtime, will help you see an improvement in your skin tone. The oil equally postpones the appearance of wrinkles and early signs of aging.

5. Improves blood circulation

Ayurvedic body massage with mustard oil improves blood flow, skin texture, and muscle tension. It also stimulates the sweat glands, allowing the body to expel pollutants. As a result, it has a naturally purifying effect. By widening skin pores through sweat when applied to the stomach, this oil promotes our blood circulation.