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Black mustard is native to southern Mediterranean region of Europe and is common to southern California. It is an annual plant whose leaves are covered in small hair and whose small yellow flowers are positioned on short stems at the end of the branches. Its seeds have no aroma but they are flavorful and are used in Indian cuisine.

Botanical name: Brassica nigra

Family name: Brassicaceae

Other name: cadlock, kerlock, senvre, scurvy

Parts used: Flowerheads and seeds

Constituents: Black mustard contains glucosinolates named sinigrin. It also contains lipids rich in linoleic, oleic and erucic acids.

Medicinal Uses:

• Externally it can be used in the treatment of bronchitis, rheumatic and joint pains.
• It can be used to treat pain caused by inflammation.
• Internally it can be used to restore lost appetite and cure indigestion.
• It can also be used to improve blood circulation.

Cautions:

• Black mustard should be avoided if you have ulcers, vein problems, or kidney disease.
• Black mustard should be avoided by children under the age of six.
• It must not be used on broken skin or near the eyes.