Grandma Esther Walton. She was a midwife and a mountain herbalist. She was always treating her family members with natural remedies when they were sick. One of The Walton episodes that I watched recently had her treating Grandpa Walton's influenza with mustard plaster. This was the first time I can recall hearing about mustard plaster. If anyone knows me then they know how much I love natural remedies and I am glad to add this one to my kitchen medicine cabinet.
Mustard plaster is applied externally to the upper chest and/or back. Mustard plasters are traditionally used to treat congestion, wet coughs, bronchitis or pneumonia, and even rheumatism. A mustard plaster can offer instant relief to discomfort in the chest as well as help treat infectious conditions of the lungs. It increases circulation, perspiration and warms up the area where the plaster is applied. It should never be applied to bare skin.
Mustard Plaster
4 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon fresh ground mustard seed powder (black mustard seed is best but yellow will do in a pinch)
Enough water to make a batter like paste
12x6 inch cloth like, muslin, flannel or any thin cloth.
hand towel
Mix the flour and mustard powder together and add enough water to make a spreadable paste. Spread the mixture on the thin cloth then lay a towel on top of that like a sandwich. Rub the chest with olive oil and then lay the mustard plaster on the chest. Drink plenty of fluids during this treatment. Check the skin every 10 minutes to assure that there is no irritation under the mustard plaster. (If there is irritation then remove the mustard plaster). Leave it on for up to 30 minutes. The skin may be pink or slightly red but there should not be any blisters or burning. This can be repeated 2-4 times a day within 2 hours of the previous treatment. Not recommend for children under 6. I would use this treatment along with other herbal remedies for lung ailments.
Amelia and I love watching retro Disney shows with Goofy, Donald, Mickey and the chipmunks. We came across this video of Goofy and his wife gives him a mustard plaster for his cold. I thought it was cute. If you follow the directions and use caution then your mustard plaster will not hurt like Goofy's!
Goofy Cartoon - Cold War (1951)
This information is for educational purposes only and not intended to treat or diagnose. Please consult with your doctor before using any herbal treatments.
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