Horseradish: positive effects for your health

Horseradish tastes wonderfully hot and stimulates our senses. The inconspicuous root not only has culinary advantages, it also strengthens our immune system thanks to its unique ingredients. We’ll tell you what’s in the sharp root here.

Horseradish: These nutrients are in it

The spiciness of the horseradish goes through the nose and goes away almost as quickly as it came. Unlike chili, which, by the way, also promotes our health, the ingredients in horseradish do not irritate our pain and heat receptors on the tongue. Horseradish contains mustard oils, which spread through our noses and sinuses when we eat or prepare the delicious root and sometimes bring tears to our eyes. However, it is precisely these mustard oils that are particularly beneficial for our health and help to keep bacteria and even viruses at bay. To be more precise, horseradish does not contain mustard oil, but mustard oil glycosides and the enzyme myrosinase. When horseradish is processed or when we chew it, the myrosinase enzymes break down and break down the mustard oil glycosides. In the process, mustard oils are then released.

In addition to the extremely healthy and antibacterial mustard oil glycoside, 100 grams of the pale root are full to the brim with essential nutrients such as

  • Vitamin C (114 milligrams)
  • Vitamin B3 (600 Micrograms)
  • Vitamin B5 (200 Micrograms)
  • Potassium (628 milligrams)
  • Calcium (94 milligrams)
  • Sodium (9 milligrams)
  • Phosphorus (93 milligrams)

5 health benefits of horseradish

1. Mustard oils are effective against colds

Horseradish has special anti-inflammatory properties. The pungent mustard oils, which are created by breaking down the mustard oil glycosides, repel bacteria and stop them from multiplying. The mustard oils can even work against viruses and thus support our immune system in its defense work. The spicy mustard oils are particularly effective against cold viruses and infections of our upper respiratory tract. If you suspect a coming cold, eat about a teaspoon of grated horseradish daily.

Did you know : These foods protect you from colds > >

2. Digestion and blood circulation are stimulated

The mustard oil in horseradish has circulation-enhancing properties. In the stomach and intestines, this ensures stimulated digestion and a healthy metabolism, while boosted blood circulation in the mucous membranes strengthens the protective barrier against bacteria and viruses. In the intestine, the mustard oils in horseradish can also reduce the development of intestinal polyps and thus reduce the likelihood of colon cancer. Researchers were able to determine this in studies  in which horseradish and wasabi were examined for their anti-cancer effects. Wasabi is a Japanese horseradish that is ground into a creamy paste and eaten with sushi.

3. Muscle and joint pain are relieved

You can also use horseradish externally. In the form of wraps and poultices, horseradish that has been ground into a pulp can be placed on aching muscles, where the blood circulation-promoting effect – similar to that of a heat plaster – ensures an anticonvulsant and relaxing effect. This can help to heal painful sore muscles more quickly. Anti-inflammatory effects can also be achieved with external horseradish applications for joint pain. Anyone affected by rheumatism or gout can use horseradish dressings as an anti-inflammatory home remedy to help with symptoms.

Also interesting : These foods help relieve sore muscles > >

4. Horseradish works against bladder infections

The anti-inflammatory components of horseradish, such as mustard oil glycosides, are primarily excreted in our urine. On the way through the kidneys, bladder and urinary tract, the anti-inflammatory effects can then ensure a rapid improvement, especially with the onset of bladder and urinary tract infections, by inhibiting the growth of bacteria in the bladder and urinary tract. We recover faster or prevent the development of painful bladder infections from the outset.

5. Vitamin C strengthens bones

Of course, vitamin C is known to be one of the most important vitamins to support the normal functioning of the immune system. In addition to the antioxidant effects, the vitamin also contributes to our bone health. It supports the regulation of our phosphorus and calcium balance and thus contributes to our bones remaining resilient and healthy. In childhood, vitamin C deficiency can lead to bone deformities, while adults who do not get enough vitamin C can develop bone softening. The daily requirement of vitamin C for adults is around 100 milligrams. With just 100 grams of horseradish a day, you can easily cover your daily requirement.

Crystal Waston MD

Crystal Waston has a degree in Cross Media Production and Publishing. At vital.de she gives everyday tips and deals with topics related to women's health, sport, and nutrition.

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