Mustard seeds are the small round seeds of various mustard plants. The seeds are usually about 1 to 2 millimetres in diameter and may be coloured from yellowish white to black. They are an important spice in many regional foods and may come from one of three different plants: black mustard (Brassica nigra), brown Indian mustard (B. juncea), or white/yellow mustard (B. hirta/Sinapis alba).

Benefits: Mustard seeds and its oil has traditionally been used to relieve muscle pain, rheumatism and arthritic pain. In India, mustard oil is applied to the scalp and is believed to stimulate hair growth. Its ground seeds act as a laxative, stimulant to the gastric mucosa and increase intestinal secretion. Mustard seed offers protection against certain diseases and some infections. It protects against certain types of cancer, lower blood sugar levels, psoriasis and head ache. It reduces symptoms of contact dermatitis. Mustard seed is an important spice in many regional foods.