Horseradish, for a healthy liver
Well-being — di Silvia C. Turrin
During seasonal changes, horseradish roots are an ally for cleansing the liver, resolving biliary disorders and aiding the absorption of minerals and vitamins.
Horseradish, for a healthy liver
During seasonal changes, horseradish roots are an ally for cleansing the liver, resolving biliary disorders and aiding the absorption of minerals and vitamins.
Its scientific name is Armoracia rusticana and it belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is commonly known as cren or barbaforte. Horseradish is one of those plants at risk of being forgotten, but something is changing thanks to the rediscovery of its medicinal properties. The virtues of its roots were well known even in ancient times. During the Middle Ages, horseradish was used as a food to combat rickets, while in the form of poultices it was employed to treat joint pain and rheumatism. Later, through studies carried out by François Dorvault and Henry Leclerc, it was discovered that its pungent flavour can stimulate gastric and biliary secretions, promoting appetite as well as the body's digestive and detoxifying processes.
The properties of horseradish
Rediscovered by those who follow a vegetarian and macrobiotic diet (as an alternative to daikon), horseradish is also making a comeback in herbal medicine. The plant's roots are a concentrated source of important mineral substances, such as calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium; they are also rich in vitamins (C, B1, B2 and B6). Precisely because of the substances it contains, horseradish was once called the "garden penicillin." It is also an important ingredient in a detoxifying diet, as it eliminates hepatic waste while simultaneously cleansing the kidneys and gallbladder.
How to use horseradish
External use
To relieve chilblains, or muscular or joint pain, a compress made with grated roots is applied. Horseradish paste, prepared by combining dried roots mixed with a little lukewarm water, is an age-old remedy for soothing the discomfort caused by insect stings.
Internal use
For digestive problems or as a detox substance, horseradish is used in salads: raw or steamed roots. The daily amount should not exceed 20 grams. It can also be taken in the form of a mother tincture (30 drops diluted in water) or as a syrup. As an infusion: 2 grams per cup is recommended. The infusion — used as a gargle — is also indicated for combating bad breath.
Horseradish syrup
Finely slice the horseradish roots (2 to 4 roots) and place them in a container. Then add honey (of your choice: linden, eucalyptus, rosemary or thyme). Cover with a natural fabric and store in a cool, shaded place. Leave to macerate for three weeks. After that, strain and pour into a previously sterilised glass bottle. Always store in a cool place.
This syrup is a natural remedy for coughs and throat complaints. 5 to 10 ml, two to three times a day, is recommended.
The use of horseradish is, however, inadvisable for those suffering from gastroduodenal ulcers, and for children under 6 years of age; during pregnancy and breastfeeding it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking it.