In Ayurveda, healing doesn’t begin in a lab it begins in your kitchen. And one of the most powerful yet underrated ingredients in that kitchen is yellow mustard oil, or peeli sarson ka tel. Known for its warming, detoxifying, and circulatory benefits, this oil has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic rituals to restore dosha balance, improve agni (digestive fire), and support overall vitality.
Let’s explore five time-tested Ayurvedic ways to use yellow mustard oil not just for cooking, but for deep, holistic healing.
1. Abhyanga (Self-Massage) for Circulation and Vata Balance
In Ayurveda, abhyanga is the daily ritual of self-massage using warm oil. Yellow mustard oil, with its ushna virya (heating potency) and katu rasa (pungent taste), is ideal for pacifying Vata dosha, which governs movement, dryness, and the nervous system.
How to use: Warm the oil slightly and massage it into your body using long strokes on limbs and circular motions on joints. Focus on feet, lower back, and shoulders. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes before a warm bath.
Benefits:
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Improves blood circulation
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Relieves joint stiffness and muscle fatigue
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Calms anxiety and supports better sleep
2. Oil Pulling for Oral Detox and Immunity
Gandusha, or oil pulling, is an ancient Ayurvedic practice where oil is swished in the mouth to draw out toxins.Yellow mustard oil is especially effective due to its antibacterial, antifungal, and kapha-reducing properties.
How to use: Swish 1 tablespoon of mustard oil in your mouth for 5 to 10 minutes first thing in the morning. Spit it out and rinse with warm water.
Benefits:
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Strengthens gums and teeth
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Reduces bad breath and oral bacteria
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Supports sinus and throat health
3. Nasal Oil Application for Respiratory Relief
Nasya is the practice of applying oil into the nostrils to cleanse and nourish the nasal passages. Mustard oil’s sharp and warming nature helps clear kapha blockages, making it ideal for sinus congestion and seasonal allergies.
How to use: Warm a few drops of mustard oil and apply 1 to 2 drops in each nostril while lying down. Inhale gently.
Benefits:
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Clears nasal congestion
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Improves mental clarity
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Supports respiratory health
Caution: Not suitable for Pitta-dominant individuals or during peak summer.
4. Digestive Stimulation Through Cooking
Yellow mustard oil is not just a cooking medium it’s a digestive stimulant. Its pungent taste activates agni, the digestive fire, and helps reduce ama (toxins) in the gut.
How to use: Use woodpressed yellow mustard oil for tadka in dals, sabzis, or to sauté spices. It’s especially beneficial in winter or for Kapha-Vata dominant individuals.
Benefits:
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Enhances digestion and metabolism
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Reduces bloating and sluggishness
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Balances Kapha and Vata doshas
5. Topical Application for Joint Pain and Swelling
Mustard oil is a classic Ayurvedic remedy for joint pain, arthritis, and muscle stiffness. Its anti-inflammatory and circulatory properties make it a go-to oil for localized pain relief.
How to use: Warm mustard oil and mix with a pinch of turmeric or rock salt. Massage gently into affected areas.
Benefits:
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Reduces inflammation and swelling
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Improves mobility and flexibility
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Relieves cold-induced joint stiffness
Conclusion
Yellow mustard oil isn’t just a cooking staple it’s a therapeutic powerhouse in Ayurveda. Whether you’re using it for massage, oral detox, nasal cleansing, or cooking, this oil supports circulation, digestion, immunity, and mental clarity.
So the next time you reach for oil, choose one that doesn’t just flavor your food but heals your body.
