DEEPIKA RATHOD
Due to the cold weather, the fog as well as smog is increasing. Keeping the pollution in mind, we need to take care of our lungs to make sure this pollution doesn’t impact them badly. To do this, we will use a very basic spice – mustard – that’s available in every household. Mustard is an elixir for the lungs and helps with COPD, asthma, and other respiratory issues by reducing inflammation. It is also good for the hair and skin and in maintaining good organ health. Mustard seeds or even leaves can be used because it is a crucifer and rich in sulforaphanewhich has the magic of reducing inflammation.
Mustard can be used as a whole, as oil, and even as a powder which can be added in gravies, salad, etc. Sulforaphane as we all know plays a very important role in the human body against different diseases including cancer. Apart from mustard we can use other crucifers like broccoli, arugula, radish, cabbage, and cauliflower too. Mustard is therapeutic for people with lung issues like asthma, COPD or lung cancer. Research says it’s helpful to improve respiratory function in the third and fourth-stage lung cancer. The strong compound found in mustard seeds known as glucosinolates and myrosinase helps in stopping the growth of tumor cells as well. Mustard oil works on dilating capillaries and improving blood circulation in the chest area. Plus, it helps to open up the bronchi and make breathing easier. One can use mustard oil on day-to-day basis for cooking to get its benefits, or take one tsp at bedtime followed by warm water or even apply warm mustard oil on chest to reduce congestion and improve
breathing.
Mustard seeds are also a good source of magnesium, copper, iron, etc., that helps in improving nerve function and blood flow to lungs and prevents asthma attacks as well. It also contains calefacient, one of the important compounds which helps in keeping the BP stable and induces sweating. Due to this, it helps in regulating body temperature and controlling fever as well. Rubbing mustard oil on the palms and soles can be helpful to create warmth. Let’s try and have foods that are found in nature in abundance because they are the most beneficial for our body. Use a simple and pure form of mustard that is found in nature, without any additives.
