Mustard (Sarson / Khardal) in Tibb-e-Nabawi

A Seed of Power, Precision & Divine Wisdom

Mustard, known as Khardal (خردل) in Arabic and Sarson in South Asia, is a powerful seed valued in classical Islamic medicine (Unani) for its warming and stimulating nature. Beyond its medicinal use, mustard holds a unique place in Islam, as it is explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an as a symbol of precision, accountability, and divine justice.

In Tibb-e-Nabawi, such seeds are not only evaluated for physical benefit, but also for the spiritual lessons they carry.

🌱 Mustard Seed in the Qur’an

Allah ﷻ mentions the mustard seed to demonstrate how even the smallest thing is never overlooked:

“O my son, indeed if it is the weight of a mustard seed and it is within a rock or in the heavens or in the earth, Allah will bring it forth.”
(Surah Luqman 31:16)

These verses show:

• The extreme smallness of the mustard seed

• Allah’s perfect knowledge and justice

• That nothing is insignificant in creation

This Qur’anic mention elevates mustard from a simple seed to a symbol of divine precision.

Mustard in Classical Islamic Medicine

Classical Muslim physicians described mustard as:

• Strongly warming and penetrating

• Dissolving thick humors (especially phlegm)

• Stimulating digestion and circulation

It was used carefully, knowing its power, which perfectly reflects the Qur’anic theme:
👉 Small in size, great in effect.

Temperament of Mustard

According to Unani medicine:

• Temperament: Hot & Dry

• Effect: Warming, stimulating, dissolving

• Best for: Cold temperament, sluggish digestion, excess phlegm

Because of its intensity, mustard must be used sparingly.

Health Benefits of Mustard

🌿 1. Stimulates Digestion & Appetite

Mustard:

• Awakens weak digestion

• Stimulates appetite

• Reduces heaviness and bloating

Especially useful in cold or phlegmatic conditions.

🫁 2. Clears Phlegm & Congestion

Traditionally used for:

• Chest congestion

• Cold-related cough

• Excess mucus

Its warming nature helps expel phlegm.

🩸 3. Improves Circulation

Mustard:

• Warms cold limbs

• Improves blood flow

• Reduces stiffness

Helpful in cold climates and sluggish circulation.

🦴 4. Supports Joints & Muscles (External Use)

Mustard oil and poultices were used for:

• Joint stiffness

• Muscle discomfort

• Cold-induced pain

⚠️ Always used gently and for short durations.

How Mustard Is Traditionally Used

✔ Small quantities as seasoning
✔ Mustard oil for external massage
✔ Warm poultices (with caution)

Excess use is discouraged.

Who Should Be Careful?

Mustard should be limited by:

• People with excess heat

• Those with acidity or ulcers

• Sensitive digestion

Power requires restraint—a key Sunnah principle.

Spiritual & Lifestyle Reflection

The mustard seed teaches us:

• Nothing is insignificant to Allah ﷻ

• Small actions carry great weight

• Power lies in precision, not size

Just as a mustard seed is tiny yet powerful, moderate use brings benefit, excess brings harm.

Conclusion

Mustard (Khardal / Sarson) is not only a medicinal seed in Tibb-e-Nabawi and Unani medicine, but also a Qur’an-mentioned symbol of divine justice and precision. When used wisely, it supports digestion, circulation, and strength. When misused, it causes harm—perfectly reflecting the Islamic principle of balance (Wasatiyyah).