Radish enjoys particular notoriety in the kitchen. At the same time, the tuber has healing properties that are now almost forgotten.
Occurrence and cultivation of the radish
Originally, the radish comes from the Mediterranean region. Here he could be localized in the north of Africa, Europe, the Near East to Pakistan. Radish was already used by the ancient Egyptians for medicinal purposes. The builders of the pyramids were given radish in addition to onions and garlic, should it preserve health. The taste of radish is spicy and pungent, which is why it is often rejected by children. There are several types of radish. The black tuber proves to be the most effective against the treatment of diseases. Originally, the radish comes from the Mediterranean region. Here it could be localized in the north of Africa, Europe, Near East to Pakistan. Meanwhile, the cultivation of radish is spread all over the world. The radish is a herbaceous plant, which survives about one to two years. Depending on the species, the roots are more or less fleshy. For medicinal uses, usually only the lower part of the plant is processed. The above-ground part is often inconspicuous. Some species have four-petaled flowers that may be white, yellowish, pink, or red. In addition, in some places there are pods that serve for propagation and contain more seeds of the radish. The radish also has a relationship with mustard, turnips and some varieties of cabbage. The tubers can assume different colors such as white, pink or black.
Effect and application
The radish is used for various medicinal purposes. For the first time for the relief of ailments, the tuber was probably used in China. The history of the radish in Europe, on the other hand, is largely unknown. The tuber is collected between spring and autumn. The different species ripen at different times. The ingredients are responsible for the useful properties of the radish. These are raphanol, mustard oils, minerals, magnesium, vitamins, enzymes, glycobrassicin, mustard oil glycosides, linolenic acid, linoleic acid, boron, bromine, fluorine, phosphorus, cobalt, manganese, sulfur and zinc. At the same time, the plant contains a high amount of vitamin C. In this way, it can be considered as a supplement to the vitamin balance. In case of cough and cold, the radish has an expectorant and antispasmodic effect. The mustard oils increase the production of bile. This in turn plays a central role in digestion. For example, it helps break down dietary fats for better digestibility. The use of radish can be done in different ways. As a rule, it is eaten plain. Thinly sliced, the tuber can be eaten immediately, on a bread or in combination with a salad. Adding a little salt to the tuber takes away its pungency. However, not too much salt should be used. For coughs and other respiratory diseases, a syrup helps. Some cough syrups from the pharmacy already have ingredients of radish. However, the syrup can also be made independently. The ingredients are only a black radish, water and sugar. The high content of sugar makes the liquid durable. Nevertheless, it should be used up quickly to ensure its effectiveness. For homemade radish juice, the root is grated and squeezed. As part of a radish cure, 100 milliliters should initially be drunk daily on an empty stomach. The amount can be constantly increased until after 3 weeks about 400 milliliters are drunk. After that, a reduction should be made. Such a cure is recommended for people with gout, rheumatism, spring fatigue or digestive weakness. Radish does not usually cause side effects or unpleasant side effects. Only people with a sensitive stomach should refrain from eating large quantities of the tuber.
Importance for health, treatment and prevention.
Radish has numerous useful properties related to health. As a rule, it is used to treat existing ailments. At the same time, a cure can also prevent disease, especially in the cooler months. The high vitamin C content supports the immune system and ensures that pathogens are less likely to cause disease. In a case of scurvy supplementation with radish is also suitable.However, such vitamin C deficiency is very rare in Western countries. The root stimulates the production of various digestive juices, such as bile. In this way, digestion can be stimulated, and complaints such as constipation and flatulence experience relief. The effect against digestive complaints is scientifically proven. In particular, the use of radish proves useful in cases of fat intolerance. At the same time, the ingredients succeed in killing certain bacteria. These are mainly triggers of respiratory diseases. In case of existing inflammation of respiratory tract or long-lasting cough, the tuber can provide relief. The radish offers numerous advantages in comparison with chemical medicines. Thus, side effects are not to be expected. However, people with gallstones should switch to an alternative. Nevertheless, the radish is an inexpensive, natural remedy. Various tricks help to take away the root’s pungency. For example, it can be soaked in water or vinegar. A small dose can also be used to treat children, as long as they do not refuse to ingest it because of its pungency. The healing powers of radish are especially important as a treatment method. Prevention of ailments is also possible, but is relatively rarely used.
