The 10 Health Benefits of Horseradish Root!

Horseradish root is a very popular condiment, although it does not have a lingering aftertaste. Horseradish root originated in southeastern Europe and eventually spread all over the world. Several recent researches have revealed a lot of important facts about this root.

Horseradish root and wasabi  have a bit of a similarity. Both belong to the same plant family (called Brassica) which also includes broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and mustard greens. And both are known for their wickedly pungent flavors. Talking about the differences,  Horseradish Root is mainly grown for its large roots (which are brown-skinned and pure white inside). And wasabi  is grown for its bright green trunk.

And while they both taste strangely bitter, wasabi  also feels like a vegetable with a bit of sweetness. But  horseradish is absolutely hot and spicy. These are the main differences between  horseradish root and  wasabi . And it is important to know that most wasabi  sold in the United States is confused with horseradish root . AND

Properties:

Most of horseradish root benefits  come from its high amount of allylic isothiocyanate component, which is known to prevent different forms of cancer. Other compounds in horseradish , namely glucosinolate and sinigrin, also have chemopreventive effects.

Horseradish root  also has several antioxidants  that help treat many respiratory disorders like mucus and sinusitis. They also help fight bacterial infections, including those in the urinary tract. Now that you know the properties of  horseradish root,  also know the health  benefits of horseradish root:

Benefits:

1. Hair health:

Although there are few studies on it, some sources say that the antioxidants  present in this root help to regrow hair and prevent hair loss. They achieve this by improving circulation to the scalp. Simply prepare a poultice with  horseradish root and apply to your scalp. Let it act for about 20 minutes and then use your shampoo as usual.

2. Against melasma:

Melasma is a condition where brown spots appear on the face. But since the root has bleaching properties, it can help treat skin discoloration – which is the main symptom of melasma. You can simply cut horseradish root into slices and rub one directly on your skin.

Make sure the juice from the root is applied to the affected areas. You can let it dry and then rinse with warm water  and dry. Repeat once a week until the brown spots are gone. You can also mix two tablespoons of horseradish powder with a cup of sour cream.

Apply the mixture on your face and leave it on for 30 minutes. Wash your face with warm water . Repeat once a week until you see positive results.

3. Fights urinary tract infections:

This is also considered one of the best  Horseradish Root Benefits. The antibiotic properties contained in this root can help treat urinary  tract infections in some cases better than conventional treatment. Another reason that makes this root very functional for treating infections is that it has a compound called sinigrin, this compound is an effective diuretic and prevents water retention , and this helps to deal with  urinary tract infections .

4. Helps reduce age spots:

This is another one of the excellent Horseradish Root Benefits. The skin lightening properties of this root have a role to play here. You can make a paste of  horseradish root and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it for about 20 minutes and then wash it off with  warm water . You can use this method a few times a week.

Alternatively, you can grate a piece of the root and mix it with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar. Let the mixture stand for about two weeks. Using a cotton ball, apply it to the affected areas. Use this method up to three times a day for about a month.

5. Rich in antioxidant:

Many studies have already reached the same conclusion that this root contains many photocompounds, which are antioxidants that are extremely beneficial for our health. Some other antioxidants  in  horseradish root are anti-mutagenic, meaning they can protect the body from mutagens that would otherwise cause severe damage. by oxidative stress.

6. Against bad digestion:

Several enzymes present in this root help to stimulate digestion  and help with bowel movements. Horseradish root  is also considered a cholagogue, meaning it stimulates the production of bile in the gallbladder – thus aiding digestion .

And the little fiber in the root can also improve digestion . However, some reports also recommend this root against digestive problems. So it is better to consult your doctor.

7. It has rich antimicrobial properties:

It is the allyl isothiocyanate in the root that offers antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown that this compound can offer protection against a variety of microbes.

And in another study, roast beef added with horseradish essential oil exhibited the greatest resistance against bacterial growth. The antimicrobial properties of horseradish also help in treating ear infections  .

8. Fight cancer:

Without a doubt, this is one of the main  benefits of horseradish root. Recent studies have found that the glucosinolates present in this root activate cancer-fighting enzymes, and this may be beneficial for patients who have this condition. What’s more interesting is that these glucosinolates present in this root, in the plant world, actually protect plants from toxic environments.

In fact,  horseradish has 10 times more glucosinolates than broccoli and many other vegetables. There are other preliminary studies that claim that this root can also induce cell death in the case of colon cancer. All this only underlines the possibility of glucosinolates being used as a potential cure for cancer.

9. Fights respiratory diseases:

The antibiotic properties of this root can also play an important role in treating respiratory diseases. In fact, traditional medicine has seen the use of this root in the treatment of bronchitis, cough, common cold, and sinusitis.

The results of one study were surprising. When a drug containing horseradish root was tested against conventional antibiotics, the results were quite comparable. The root was able to help treat sinusitis (or congestion) and bronchitis in a similar way to treatment.

10. Helps fight inflammation:

An Italian study claims that these roots can help fight various types of inflammation, this can reduce the release of reactive oxygen species. Various parts of Chinese medicine have recommended the use of  horseradish root to help prevent inflammation either in the case of injury or even for relief from arthritis pain. However, we need more research on this.

Side effects:

• Kidney Problems:  Several studies have concluded that this root can increase the flow of urine, and this can be a cause for concern for individuals with kidney disorders.
• Digestive Issues:  While horseradish root  can help treat certain digestive issues, there is evidence that horseradish can also aggravate intestinal ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or other digestive conditions. Therefore, consult your doctor.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:  This root has several properties that are not beneficial and can even be toxic. So, pregnant and lactating women should stay away from all forms of this root.
• Hypothyroidism:  Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs due to an underactive thyroid gland. This root can aggravate this condition.
• Digestive Problems in Children: Children under 4 years old should never consume this root as it can cause problems in the digestive tract.