The benefits of horseradish

Horseradish was used in ancient times, especially for back pain. When used correctly, horseradish is known to relieve many pains in the body today. Horseradish, rich in vitamin C, both protects against colds and provides the collagen that forms cartilage. It shows antipyretic effect especially in colds that cause high fever (3). In addition, horseradish offers both a connective tissue cleansing and expectorant feature. It slows coughing and relaxes the bronchi. In a study, antimicrobial activity of isothiocyanates (ITC) extracted from horseradish root was demonstrated (3).

Studies have shown that it can fight dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, H. pylori and Salmonella. As a result, ITCs extracted from horseradish root were reported to have strong antibacterial activity and may be a candidate for use as a natural disinfectant against oral microorganisms (3).

It has been observed that hair loss, nail breakage and skin sensitivities that we observe after classical chelation, detox and purification do not occur in horseradish combination areas. It dissolves in the stomach and intestines and reinforces the feeling of satiety (1). It is an excellent food for eliminating bloating problems in humans. It can be used as a carminative (1, 2, 4).

A study aimed to examine the effects of diets containing horseradish leaves and seeds on lipid metabolites (total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)) of angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) and arginase activities in patients fed a high cholesterol diet. The results revealed that rats in the high cholesterol group had higher TC, TG and LDL-C levels and higher ACE and arginase activities, accompanied by a decrease in HDL-C levels. However, dietary supplementation with 2% and 4% horseradish leaves and seeds reversed ACE and arginase activities, TC, TG and LDL-C and HDL-C levels (2, 3, 4).

The compound sinigrin in horseradish acts like an antioxidant. It stops cell damage caused by free radicals. Too high levels of free radicals in the body increase the risk of cancer. Red radish stands out as liver and bile friendly because it is rich in sulfur compounds. It contains compounds called glucosinolates, which increase the liver’s ability to clear carcinogens (2).