Health Benefits of Horseradish, Uses And Its Side Effects

Horseradish contains various forms of isothiocyanate and sinigrin that have antioxidant effects and help to strengthen your immune system. It is also very rich in Vitamin C which is also a powerful antioxidant and is effective against viral infections. Horseradish acts against the harmful free radicals and thus prevents inflammation and infection.

Horseradish helps to stimulate blood flow to both the surface of the skin and beneath it and, thus, helps to alleviate pain. You can treat the symptoms of gout, arthritis and chilblains by applying horseradish over the affected areas. It brings relief to swollen joints and muscles.

Horseradish has diuretic and antibiotic properties due to the presence of certain chemicals and help in the production of urine. The enzymes present in it prevent toxins from getting accumulated and facilitates their removal.

Sinigrin is a glycoside present in horseradish that has a stimulating effect on blood capillaries and, in this process, helps to prevent urinary tract infections and even minimizes the chances of developing kidney stones.

Sinigrin is a glucosinolate present in horseradish that prevents the growth of cancerous cells. This is because this chemical prevents free radicals in our body to transform the healthy cells into cancerous cells. Thus you can include horseradish in your diet as it will help you to fight off cancer and delay the spread of metastasis of cancerous cells.

Potassium is essential to maintain our blood pressure as it regulates the flow of cellular fluids and also the tension in our blood vessels. Horseradish is rich in potassium and incorporating it in your diet will reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases and heart conditions like atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. Potassium present in horseradish helps to take care of your heart by lowering blood pressure and regulating the flow of fluids and nutrients.

When mucus gets accumulated in the sinuses, harmful bacteria tend to thrive there and it finally leads to sinus infection. Horseradish has volatile compounds that help to thin out the mucus and prevent this painful condition from developing. Furthermore, intake of horseradish also provides relief from influenza, colds and congestion.

The horseradish plant has elements that act as gastric stimulants and helps in digestion and facilitates easier absorption of nutrients. The salivary, gastric and intestinal glands are stimulated by the phytochemicals in horseradish.

Horseradish also helps to normalize bowel movements and occurrence of irritable problems like constipation and diarrhea by stimulating the peristaltic motion of the smooth intestinal muscles.

Horseradish has intense stimulating effects that help to treat paradontosis. The roots of the plant, when chewed, act as a natural medicine for curing toothache, strengthening gums and also treating scurvy.

Horseradish contains high levels of folate which helps to protect mothers and infants from any complications that may develop during pregnancy. It also helps the foetus to develop properly and eliminates the chances of neural tube defects.

Horseradish contains essential proteins, vitamins and minerals. The protein ingested can be metabolized into useful energy that can be used to repair and strengthen defenses again various diseases. Thus it helps you to gain energy and perform your daily tasks more easily.