-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
patient handout (botanicals)
Mustard poultice or plaster
botanicals
definition
mustard poultice or plaster
» the mustard poultice or plaster heats, breaks up and moves congestion and acts as a counterirritant; it is used most often for lung congestion and inflamed joints
directions:
1. take 1 part mustard seed powder and 2 parts flour; to make a milder poultice, add 3 parts flour to 1 part mustard powder
2. add enough water to make a paste
3. moisten a thin, clean cotton cloth that is twice the size of the area to be treated
4. spread a thin layer (about 1/8 inch thick) of paste onto the cloth; leave some uncovered space at the edges of the cloth
5. fold cloth over so the herbs are enveloped
6. lightly oil the skin over the area the poultice will be in contact
7. place the poultice flush over the area to be treated (generally the chest or back)
8. there is no need to place heat over poultice
9. leave in place for 5 - 15 minutes and no longer; if poultice feels too hot, remove and dilute mixture with more flour and water and replace; do not exceed 15 minutes
contraindications: appendicitis, cramping
footnotes