The making of a mustard plaster may seem a very simple thing, yet there
are few households in which it is properly done. Care and attention must
be given the work in order to have the results satisfactory.
A plaster should never be applied cold to a patient, the shock being too
great. It should either be mixed with warm water or well heated after
mixing. Strong ground mustard should be used, a little flour added, and
the whole stirred to a smooth, thick paste with warm borax water, which
soothes and prevents too great irritation. Some nurses add a teaspoonful
of molasses or mix the mustard with the white of an egg. When prepared
spread a piece of old linen on a warm plate, cover with the mixture, lay
a second cloth over and apply at once. If allowed to remain on until the
skin is burned or blistered, bathe gently with a little borax water,
dry, and rub with vaseline.