Healing With Horseradish

Common/Folklore Names: Great Raifort, Mountain Radish, Red Cole

Parts Used: Root

Historical Reference:

Horseradish has been in use for so long that no one is quite certain just where it originated, or exactly when. Recent theories place its orgins in Russia.

The flavorful herb is said to be one of the five 'bitter herbs' of the Passover feast, along with Coriander, Horehound, Lettuce and Nettle.

Horseradish was actually known for its medicinal use before it became a culinary addition. Assuming it is the same plant referenced by Pliny as Amoracia, the ancient Roman herbalist who recommend it, we have some of the earliest written medical references for the herb.

By the Middle Ages, Europe was used both medicinally and as a condiment, although mutual usage is difficult to trace through to all parts...some areas such as Germany mention it with purely culinary notes, while herbalists of the time in England reference it in purely medicinal terms. By the mid-1600's, however, it is mentioned as a flavorful ingredient in sauces. We find it in the 18th Century Materia Medica as R. rusticanus, so named by the herbalist Gerard, and Linneaeus gave it the botanical name of Cochlearia Armoracia due to the similarity of it's leaves to a similar spoon of the era.

The common name of Horseradish was used to distinguish this plant from it's common, milder culinary companion, the plain radish. The prefix 'Horse' was often used in such a way, as with Horse-mint or Horse-chestnut.

Medicinal Use:

Cautions: Horseradish can irritate the mucous membranes as well as the stomach lining. People with stomach or intestinal ulcers should not take Horseradish, those with stomach irritations should check with their doctors. Also avoid Horseradish if you have kidney disease or disorders, and do not give Horseradish in any form to children under 4 years of age. Do not use Horseradish if your thyroid function is low or if you take thyroxine.

Horseradish is considered a useful homeopathic remedy for:

• bronchitis and all respiratory disorders
• coughs, especially those caused by influenza
• urinary tract infections
• digestive problems, stomach cramps
• gout
• rheumatism, minor muscle pain
• increasing circulation

Horseradish has been found to have an antibiotic property that inhibits the growth of certain bacteria. This combined with a diuretic effect carries the antibiotic properties through the kidneys and urinary tract. Be aware that as with any diuretic, additional water should be taken to avoid dehydration.

We often find Horseradish paired well with meats due to its ability to stimulate the digestive organs, it actually helps to complete the digestion of rich or heavy foods.

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