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Writer's pictureNik Balogh

Nik Balogh: Mustard Plasters to the Rescue

The next time you or loved ones are battling a respiratory condition, give this traditional and effective remedy a try!


Mustard plasters for congestion are very effective and so easy to make. It takes only a few minutes to put together and is made with ingredients you can buy at your local grocery store.

I grew up with chronic bronchitis and in my teen years a boyfriend's Mother introduced me to Mustard Plasters. I have been using them ever since because they work!


When your lungs get congested with mucous that’s difficult to cough up, you have to expel that trapped mucous in order to prevent infection from developing in the lungs, causing more serious illness such as bronchitis or bacterial pneumonia.


A mustard plaster may be just the trick.


 

What Does a Mustard Plaster Do?


Hippocrates, the father of medicine, was the first to introduce and make use of what we call the mustard plaster. Mustard seed, as a traditional plant, has been used for thousands of years as a treatment for respiratory illness as well as rheumatism (arthritis and joint pain disorders). Although not considered a ‘modern medicine’, the mustard plaster works extremely well for conditions such as pneumonia, lung infections, coughs, bronchitis, colds and flu’s. The benefit of using a mustard plaster for lung related conditions is that it helps break up and clear congestion, draws out toxins, relieves cough, and stimulates the immune system to fight infection. As a topical application a mustard plaster is not only effective, but it’s also quick, safe, inexpensive, and simple to make.

This remedy is also known for easing back pain, muscle aches and cramps, and arthritis!


Are Mustard Plasters Safe?


Mustard plasters have potential risks, so use caution.

Mustard seeds contain sinigrin, a compound that gives mustard its spicy flavor. When mixed with water, sinigrin breaks down and creates allyl isothiocyanate.

A 2016 review of studies on sinigrin showed anti-cancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, wound healing properties, as well as biofumigation.

But information on these known biological activities is limited. Further studies still need to be conducted, and sinigrin’s molecular mechanisms also need to be explored.

When applied on the skin, allyl isothiocyanate creates a warm sensation. However, it’s also a skin irritant. If it stays on the skin for too long, it can cause redness, blistering and burning.


Many recipes suggest using a 1:1 mustard powder to flour ratio or even stronger. I never have and my whole family has reaped the benefits of a milder ratio.

I have always used a 1:4 ratio on the children or for those who have sensitive skin. (1 tbsp mustard powder to 4 tbsp flour)

For myself when a heavy respiratory ailment threatens to take over I will use a 1:2 ratio (2 tbsp mustard powder to 4 tbsp flour)

If hesitant, start with a 1:4 ratio and work your way up as needed.

It is normal for the skin to remain red for hours following the treatment.

For best results, repeat at least 1 time per day for 3 consecutive days, preferably at night before bed, followed by relaxation and sleep. Even just one application will make a difference though. Then you can decide if you need further applications depending on the severity of your respiratory ailment.


If you’d like to try a mustard plaster, be sure to use it properly. Never leave it on for more than 15 minutes. If you experience skin irritation, remove it immediately. Personally I leave it on my chest for 15 min and then on my upper back for 15 min. 😉


This remedy is no joke – you really do need to watch for blisters, especially on tender skin. Do not fall asleep with this on–set the alarm clock if you’re treating yourself.


To add a layer of protection between the mustard plaster and the skin, you can liberally spread an oil (olive oil or similar) or salve on the skin before placing the plaster on the body.


How to Make a Mustard Plaster


Ingredients Needed

Note: The ingredient amounts vary depending on the size of the person you treat. The important part is to mix equal amounts of flour and mustard powder.

  • Mustard Powder – This can usually be found in the spice aisle at your local grocery store. My preferred brand is Keen's. It is potent.

  • Flour – The purpose of the flour is to hold in the moisture, so it won’t dry out too quickly. You can use any flour. Flax powder would work as well.

  • Warm/Hot Tap Water – You will need enough water to achieve a pancake batter consistency. If your mixture gets too runny, simply add a little bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a bit more warm water.

  • A natural fiber cloth around 8x16 inches. (You can cut up old t-shirts or sheets)

Instructions

  • Mix flour and mustard powder in a bowl.

  • Add a small amount of water to the dry ingredients and mix them together.

  • Continue adding water until you reach a pancake batter consistency.

  • Place a 100% cotton cloth on your countertop and spread the mixture onto half of it.

  • Fold the other half of the cloth over to cover the mustard mixture.

  • It is suggested to use a base of olive oil, coconut oil or salve on the chest to protect it from burning if you are using a strong ratio. With a 1:4 ratio I don't find that necessary.

  • Place the mustard plaster onto the chest. And cover up in blankets to stay warm. (Avoid areas with open cuts, wounds, or sores.)

  • Leave on the body and let the mustard plaster work for no more than 15-20 minutes.

  • I also place the mustard plaster on my upper back for another 15-20 minutes.

  • Discard plaster after use.

Caution: Check underneath the plaster for the level of redness if you begin to feel burning, and remove it if there is potential for blistering. A wee bit of itching is a good sign it is working. Wash your hands with soap and water before touching your face or eyes.


I have created a Be Well to share traditional remedies to help everyone rediscover our ancestral knowledge of how to take good care of ourselves and our loved ones when we need to.

I do sell some of my remedies if you are in need right now, or if you don’t have the time or ingredients to make one. To purchase pre-made mustard plasters go to my store.


It’s important to note that I am not a certified medical practitioner. This post is not intended to diagnose or treat but is for informational purposes only. Please contact your medical care professional before introducing new herbal remedies into your wellness routine


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