Brown Mustard

Brown mustard is an annual herb of the cabbage family with lobed, slightly peppery leaves, bright yellow flowers and slender pods holding small, round, reddish-brown seeds. It is a major oilseed crop of northern India and is grown in many parts of the country.

The seeds and oil are used. Ayurveda calls the seed Rajika and values it as a pungent, warming spice traditionally used in digestive preparations and in massage oils for joint comfort. Mustard oil is widely used in North Indian cooking and baby massage.