mustard oil

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), also known as mustard oil, is one of the most common naturally occurring isothiocyanates, which occurs in many common cruciferous vegetables. Besides antimicrobial activity against a wide spectrum of pathogens, it showed anticancer activity in both cultured cancer cells and animal models, although the underlining mechanisms remain largely undefined. Allyl isothiocyanate is a TRPA1 and TRPV1 agonist and pungency and lachrymatory effects of Allyl isothiocyanate are mediated through the TRPA1 and TRPV1 ion channels. Allyl isothiocyanate irritates the mucous membranes and induces eczematous or vesicular skin reactions. — NCATS