There were described possible uses of white, black and Indian mustard, especially these resulting from the presence of glucosinolates and the content of erucic acid. The wholesome and anti-nutritious properties of glucosinolates were described. Apart from traditional uses of seeds in medicine and nutrition, there was presented an importance of mustards for foodstuffs, fodder, chemical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical and power industries as well as for beekeeping and green fodder purposes and the oil – as a lubricant. Positive aspects of the influence of white and Indian mustard intercropping on agricultural environment were shown. The role of mustards in protecting soil from erosion and limiting migration of biogenic components and as the source of organic matter was emphasized. Their phytosanitary functions in relation to some diseases, pests and weeds were pointed out.

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