Mustard Seed Soap for Acne

Although mustard seeds are often used in culinary applications to add flavor and spice to recipes, the mustard plant also has medicinal properties. The ancient Chinese used mustard seed to treat asthma, aching muscles, arthritis and indigestion. Herbalists and homeopathic practitioners use it to stimulate circulation and blood flow, as well as to flush toxins from the body by increasing perspiration. Due to these attributes, mustard seed is a valuable addition to the treatment of acne-prone skin. Manufacturers press the seeds into a pungent oil that has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, and use it to make skin care products such as mustard seed soap.

History

Physicians and historians have long noted the beneficial effects of mustard seed on the skin. Written documentation extends as far back as 1653. In "The English Physician," written by botanist and herbalist Nicholas Culpepper, the author notes that the outward application of mustard seed soothes skin ailments such as blemishes, bruises and eruptions. In particular, he says mustard seed: "cleanseth the face from morphew, spots, freckles and other deformities." A morphew is a mark or blemish on the skin, such as those caused by acne. Mustard seed poultices extend as far back as Hippocrates, who used them to treat irritated skin.

Identification

Yellow mustard flowers.

Mustard seed soap is easily identifiable by smell and color. Soap-makers use mustard oil in the soap-making process, and it has a strong, pungent aroma like the mustard used for culinary purposes. The smell is often compared to horseradish, which is partly the reason why botanists label the mustard plant a 'hot' herb. The finished bar of soap will not have such a powerful aroma, but will still have the telltale mustard smell. It will also have a yellow color, as mustard oil is an intense yellow that dilutes when mixed with other ingredients.

Benefits

Mustard seed has distinct benefits for troubled or blemished skin. Most notably, the soap retains potent anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, attributes that help reduce acne breakouts. In ancient times, physicians used mustard seed to expel toxins and draw out infections from the skin, as noted by Culpepper in "The English Physician." Clay masks are often used for the same purpose, with the effect of purifying the skin, soothing redness, and reducing the size and duration of acne blemishes.

Considerations

Homemade soap.

To increase the efficacy of mustard seed soap, it should ideally contain supporting ingredients. These could include aloe vera, tea tree oil, shea butter or essential oils that promote healing of the skin. Lemongrass, rosewood, lavender and peppermint all having healing properties that will compliment and enhance the acne treatment. Homemade soap is a viable alternative if you cannot find it in the store, and will give you ultimate control over the final product.

Warning

Pure, undiluted mustard seed oil is an irritant to the skin, especially in large quantities. It should never be used alone and should be treated with caution when included in homemade soap recipes. Mustard seed is also a rubefacient, meaning it stimulates circulation and promotes blood flow. A skin test for all extremely sensitive and delicate skin types is advisable, especially those with skin conditions such as Rosacea.

References

• "The English Physician;" Nicholas Culpepper; 1653

Resources

• Botanical.com: Mustards