8 Clever Ways to Use Mustard Besides as a Condiment: Burn Relief, Muscle Relaxant and More

Mustard tastes great on a hot dog, but the condiment doesn’t need to remain in the kitchen! Here are some clever ways to use the slightly spicy stuff.

Hair Conditioner

Mustard oil, extracted from mustard seeds, can be used as a hair conditioner to promote hair growth and add shine. The fatty acids in mustard oil can revive dull hair and add more strength and shine to tresses. It can also boost circulation in the scalp.

Sore Throat Relief

A mixture of a half-cup of warm water, mustard, juice of a half a lemon, one tablespoon of honey and a tablespoon of salt can be gargled to help soothe a sore throat. It may not smell or taste good, but it’ll make your throat feel a lot better.

Burn Relief

Applying a layer of cold, yellow mustard to minor burns can help reduce pain and blistering. If the pain returns after the mustard has dried, peel it off and repeat as many times as needed. This may slash the odds of blistering. But if the burn is serious, seek medical help immediately.

De-Skunking

Mustard can help remove skunk odor from non-porous surfaces when mixed with hot water. Mix one cup of dry mustard with three gallons of hot water and splash on tires, wheels, under the car, or whatever hit Pepé Le Pew to eliminate that foul aroma from your car.

Cleaning Agent

Mustard powder can be used to clean dishes and pots. It neutralizes foul smells, dissolves grease and removes stuck-on stains.

Beautifying Your Garden

White mustard seeds release nutrients into the soil that can prevent the growth of weeds and other unwanted plants. Meanwhile, placing pie tins smeared with mustard can deter pests, which don’t like the strong smell of the stuff.

Muscle Relaxant

Adding 2 tablespoons of mustard to a hot bath with 1 teaspoon of Epsom salts can help relieve muscle aches and pains. Soak for 20 minutes to relieve minor muscle pain. And a tablespoon of mustard in hot water makes a soothing foot bath to hush those aching dogs!

Cosmetic Mask

Making sure to steer clear of the eye area, spread a thin layer of mustard around your face, let sit for a few minutes, then rinse. If you have sensitive skin, this hack probably isn’t for you.