FWD 1 Commission E: White Mustard seed

  The Commission E Monographs

White Mustard seed


Sinapis albae semen
Weie Senfsamen
Published February 1, 1990

Name of Drug

Sinapis albae semen, white mustard seed.  

Composition of Drug

White mustard seed consists of the ripe, dried seed of Sinapis alba L.  [Fam.  Brassicaceae], as well as its preparations in effective dosage.  

White mustard seeds contain mustard oil glycosides and mustard oils.  

Uses

External:

  • Poultices for catarrhs of the respiratory tract, as well as for segment therapy of chronic degenerative diseases affecting the joints and soft tissues.  

Contraindications

No applications for children under the age of six.  

Note:Since mustard oils are absorbed by the skin, these preparations should not be used when kidney disorders exist.  

Side Effects

Prolonged application may result in skin and nerve damage.  

Interactions with Other Drugs

None known.  

Dosage

Unless otherwise prescribed:

External:

  • Just prior to application, mix 4 tablespoons of powdered seeds with warm water for a poultice.  

Mode of Administration

External:

  • Ground or powdered seeds for poultices.  The poultices are applied for 5 - 10 minutes to children, 10 - 15 minutes to adults.  

For sensitive skin, the application time must be decreased on an individual basis.  

Duration of Administration

Up to 2 weeks.  

Actions

Irritating to the skin
Bacteriostatic