White mustard

Sinapis alba

Sinapis alba, commonly known as white mustard, is a plant traditionally used in various culinary and folk medicine practices, particularly in Europe. While its traditional uses are not extensively documented, it has been studied for its potential applications. Scientific evidence suggests that sinalbin, a glucosinolate found in Sinapis alba, may have some efficacy in deterring pests such as the oilseed rape pest Psylliodes chrysocephala. Additionally, there is weak evidence indicating that Sinapis alba can stimulate growth up to 12% in polyurethane foam scenarios, with selective toxicity towards specific molecular groups. However, phytotoxic assays have shown concentration-dependent effects, with stronger inhibition of radicle elongation compared to seed germination. Notably, no significant safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for Sinapis alba.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The study found that sinalbin, a glucosinolate specific to white mustard (Sinapis alba), may deter feeding by the oilseed rape pest Psylliodes chrysocephala. D PMID
  • Sinapis alba showed growth stimulation up to 12% in scenarios involving polyurethane foam, indicating selective toxicity of specific molecular groups. D PMID
  • Phytotoxic assays on Sinapis alba showed concentration-dependent effects with stronger inhibition of radicle elongation than seed germination. D PMID
  • The study found weak evidence for genotype effects on larval survival in oilseed rape but no differences between 'resistant' and 'susceptible' genotypes. D PMID
  • The study monitored insect pest occurrence on ten cover crop species, providing a quantitative basis for identifying less pest-attractive options. D PMID
  • Butyrate modifies the structure of Sin a 1, promoting its nuclear translocation in gut epithelial cells. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is White mustard?

White mustard (Sinapis alba) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about White mustard?

6 sourced findings are recorded for White mustard; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that sinalbin, a glucosinolate specific to white mustard (Sinapis alba), may deter feeding by the oilseed rape pest Psylliodes chrysocephala.

How strong is the evidence for White mustard?

The strongest finding for White mustard carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is White mustard safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for White mustard in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does White mustard interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for White mustard in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of White mustard?

White mustard is also known as: Горчица белая, Moutarde blanche.

Is White mustard a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Larval antibiosis to cabbage stem flea beetle (Psylliodes chrysocephala) is absent within oilseed rape (Brassica napus). literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Essential Oils from Pruning Residues of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. 'Essence Purple' and Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G.Don: Phytotoxic and Ecotoxicological Evaluation. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Chemical Characterization and Aquatic Toxicity of Firefighting Runoff-Linking Organic Profiling to Multi-Trophic Bioassays in the One Health Framework. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Host Rejection of the White Mustard (Sinapis alba) by a Major Oilseed Rape Pest Is Driven by the Avoidance of Sinalbin. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Monitoring the occurrence of pests on cover crops. literature abstract metadata
  6. T2 Butyrate-Dependent Conformational Switch Promotes Nuclear Translocation of the Mustard Allergen Sin a 1 in Human Gut Epithelial Cells. literature abstract metadata