The Worldwide Gourmet reports that in Mississippi during a yellow fever epidemic, many people believed that mustard would protect them from contracting the illness. Mustard seed may help knee pain by providing heat to the sore area. Depending on the source of pain, a heat compress can relieve inflammation and take away some of the throbbing that occurs---especially with chronic conditions such as arthritis.
Step 1
Place 15 g of ground mustard seed into a mixing bowl. If you grind the seed yourself, use it immediately. Other options include purchasing ground mustard seed or capsules that you can break open to remove the mustard seed powder.
Step 2
Combine the ground seed with an equal part of flour and mix with a spoon. Mustard seed has a thermogenic effect when it touches skin. To prevent burning on hands, either wear gloves or use an instrument to stir.
Step 3
Add one or two eggs whites to the powder compound in the bowl. The egg white is a stiffing liquid that gives the compress structure. Use enough to make a paste out of the two dry ingredients.
Step 4
Spread the paste onto cloth such as muslin or cheesecloth, to make a compress.
Step 5
Lay the compress, cloth side down, onto the affected area of the knee. Leave the compress on for 15 minutes unless it burns or is uncomfortable.
Step 6
Remove the cloth and discard. Wash the skin with cool water to rinse off residue from the compress.
Tips and Warnings
- Repeat the process up to four times a day or as needed for pain.
- While a mustard seed plaster may be a suitable pain reliever, it should not be a substitute for medical care. If the pain is due to an accident, have the knee examined to determine the extent of the injury. Some injuries need immediate treatment to avoid permanent damage. If you are being treated for any medical condition or are pregnant, talk to your doctor before using mustard seed. There is some evidence that mustard seed may affect the cardiovascular system and blood flow. Do not use a mustard seed plaster if diagnosed with blood clots, phlebitis or heart disease unless instructed by your physician. Remove the compress immediately if you feel dizzy or any discomfort beyond the original pain.
Things You'll Need
- 15 g ground mustard seed
- 15 g flour
- 2 eggs
- Cloth (muslin or cheesecloth)
