1. What is Synthetic Mustard Oil?

Synthetic Mustard Oil is a chemically engineered version of natural mustard oil, created to mimic the active constituents found in the oil extracted from mustard seeds (mainly from Brassica juncea). Unlike natural mustard oil, which is cold-pressed or solvent-extracted from mustard seeds, synthetic mustard oil is produced through industrial synthesis and may contain isolated or modified versions of mustard oil's key compounds.

2. Key Chemical Components

The primary active compound in both natural and synthetic mustard oil is:

• Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC)
• Known for its pungent smell and biological activity.
• Acts as a natural insecticide, antimicrobial, and fungicide.

Other components (in trace or modified forms) may include:

• Erucic acid
• Myrosinase (in natural forms, but not usually in synthetic)
• Various isothiocyanates (depending on formulation)

3. Properties of Synthetic Mustard Oil

• Appearance: Pale yellow to amber liquid
• Odor: Pungent, characteristic mustard-like smell
• Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents
• Stability: More stable than natural oil under certain storage conditions
• Volatility: May be more volatile due to isolation of active compounds

4. Role in Herbal Pesticide Formulations

Synthetic mustard oil is valued in herbal or eco-friendly pesticide formulations for its bioactive properties:

a. Insecticidal Action

• Mode of action: Disrupts insect nervous systems, repels pests due to strong odor.
• Effective against:
• Aphids
• Whiteflies
• Caterpillars
• Beetles
• Nematodes

b. Antimicrobial & Antifungal

• Destroys or inhibits the growth of:
• Plant pathogenic fungi (e.g., Fusarium, Alternaria)
• Bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas, Xanthomonas)

c. Synergist in Formulations

• Enhances the efficacy of other herbal extracts like:
• Neem oil (Azadirachtin)
• Karanj oil (Pongamia pinnata)
• Garlic and chilli extracts

d. Natural Adjuvant

• Acts as a penetrant and spread booster, improving coverage and contact of active ingredients on leaf surfaces and insect bodies.

5. Uses in Formulations: Typical Applications

6. Advantages over Natural Mustard Oil

• Standardization: Consistent concentration of active components
• Enhanced Potency: Higher content of allyl isothiocyanate
• Longer Shelf Life
• Less Risk of Rancidity

7. Safety & Precautions

• Phytotoxicity: Use in appropriate concentrations to avoid leaf burn.
• Handling: Use gloves and avoid inhalation due to pungent fumes.
• Environmental Impact: Biodegradable but avoid overuse near water bodies.

Conclusion

Synthetic mustard oil is an effective, eco-friendly component in herbal pesticide formulations. Its strong insecticidal, antifungal, and repellent properties make it a valuable tool in integrated pest management (IPM), especially in sustainable and organic farming systems.