A mustard plaster is a

poultice A poultice, also called a cataplasm, is a soft moist mass, often heated and medicated, that is spread on cloth and placed over the skin to treat an aching, inflamed, or painful part of the body. It can be used on wounds, such as cuts. 'Poultice ...

of mustard seed powder spread inside a protective dressing and applied to the body to stimulate healing. It can be used to warm muscle tissues and for chronic aches and pains. It was once part of conventional medical treatment, and available in prepared versions in pharmacies. It fell from favor in the 20th century and is now used only as a home remedy.

Uses

Mustard plasters were used for aches and pains, including

rheumatism Rheumatism or rheumatic disorders are conditions causing chronic, often intermittent pain affecting the joints or connective tissue. Rheumatism does not designate any specific disorder, but covers at least 200 different conditions, including ar ...

, arthritis, and sore muscles. It was also used for chest congestion.

Side effects

If left in place for too long, it can produce first-degree burns to the skin. Vapors might cause nausea.

Uses

Side effects

See also

References

Further reading