What is the difference between yellow and brown mustard seeds?

Yellow (Sinapis alba) is milder, carrying sinalbin — the base of American and English mustards. Brown (Brassica juncea) is sharper, carrying sinigrin — the base of Dijon, Persian torshi, and Bengali panch phoron.

Is mustard seed safe in pregnancy?

Yes — culinary use in torshi, dressings, and tempered oils is traditional and safe. External mustard poultices are traditionally avoided during pregnancy given the vigorous heat-drawing action.

Are mustard plasters safe?

Only diluted with flour and only for a short time — remove at the first strong tingling, never past redness. Never on infants, thin older skin, or broken skin. Neat mustard burns fast.