Active Compounds:raphanin, glucosinolates, vitamin C, volatile oil
Background: The radish is something you may have never thought of outside of a salad ingredient. But radishes, along with being tasty and nutritious, have some very special medicinal qualities. In fact, they've been prized by ancient peoples for their usefulness.
The people of ancient Rome used radish oil to treat skin ailments. In ancient Egypt, the radish was even used as a currency to pay those who worked to build the pyramids. Chinese medicine has used the radish to treat a weak appetite for centuries as well.
Now people still use radishes to treat digestive ailments. It is useful in treating constipation, weak appetite, and respiratory tightness.
Applications:Stimulant/Laxative/Digestive
Radish is primarily used to treat digestive ailments.
Appetite: Radish helps to stimulate a weak appetite.
Digestive: Radish helps to aid digestion by stimulating the gut.
Constipation: Radish juice from the black radish can be drunk to treat constipation.
Chest congestion: Radish may be eaten to treat some respiratory ailments.
Description: Radish is an annual plant that is native to Asia. However, it can be found worldwide where it is cultivated. The plant grows to about 3 feet tall and has a large tap root that is the part used for eating and medicinal purposes.
Dosage:
May be eaten with foods raw or cooked.
Juice may be consumed to relieve constipation and improve digestion.
Safety: While radish is meant to be a digestive aid, it does cause indigestion for some people. Do not take radish if you have an ulcer, gastritis, or thyroid problems. Take radish no longer than 3-4 weeks. Consult your health care provider before beginning use of any herb.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.