Brassica Nigra: Ethopharmacological Review Of A Routinely Used Condiment.

Brassica nigra belonging to the family Brassicaceae (syn - black mustard) comprises of dried seeds and is widely cultivated in Mediterranean region and various other countries like India and Europe. B. nigra contains glycosinolates which undergoes hydrolysis in the presence of myrosinase enzyme yields allyl isothiocyante. The bitter taste and pungent odor is due to the isothiocyanates. B. Nigra shows various activities that are medically important such as anticancer, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-helminthic, protection against renal and hepatic toxicity and can also be used in diabetes treatment. Black mustards are also used in cardiovascular and neurological disorders. The present review explores the historical background including the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics, chemical constituents, pharmacological action, various evaluation parameters, formulations and uses of black mustard.