Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana syn. Cochlearia armoracia)

---

Botanical Information

• Family: Brassicaceae
• Common Names: Horseradish, Mountain Radish, Great Raifort
• Parts Used: Root, leaves

---

Description

Armoracia rusticana is a perennial plant native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is widely cultivated for its pungent root, used both as a culinary spice and a potent medicinal remedy. Traditionally, horseradish has been valued for its stimulant, antimicrobial, and expectorant properties.

---

Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine as a digestive aid and expectorant for respiratory conditions.
• Applied externally as a poultice for muscle pain and joint inflammation.
• Traditionally consumed to boost circulation and relieve sinus congestion.

---

Constituents

• Glucosinolates (sinigrin, gluconasturtiin)
• Isothiocyanates (mustard oil compounds)
• Flavonoids
• Vitamin C
• Volatile oils

---

Actions

• Stimulant
• Antimicrobial
• Expectorant
• Diuretic
• Digestive tonic
• Rubefacient (increases blood flow when applied externally)

---

Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory and Sinus Health:
Horseradish is a strong expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the lungs and sinuses, making it useful for colds, bronchitis, and sinus infections.

2. Digestive Support:
It stimulates digestion, increases gastric secretions, and helps alleviate bloating and sluggish digestion.

3. Circulatory Stimulation:
By increasing blood flow, horseradish can help with poor circulation and cold extremities.

4. Antimicrobial Properties:
Its volatile compounds exhibit antibacterial and antifungal effects, making it useful for infections.

5. Muscle and Joint Pain Relief:
Used externally as a poultice, horseradish increases circulation and relieves muscle stiffness and arthritic pain.

---

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1 tsp of freshly grated root per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 1-3 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice:

• Grated fresh root applied externally for joint pain and muscle aches. Remove if skin irritation occurs.

Sinus Remedy:

• A small amount of grated fresh root can be inhaled or chewed to clear nasal congestion.

---

Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid excessive use due to its stimulating effects.
• Stomach Sensitivity: Can cause irritation in individuals with gastritis, ulcers, or acid reflux.
• Skin Irritation: Prolonged contact with fresh root may cause redness or irritation.

---

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional European Medicine: Warming and stimulating, used to expel excess dampness and mucus.

---

Combinations

• For Sinus and Respiratory Support: Combine with garlic and ginger.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and peppermint.
• For Circulatory Stimulation: Combine with cayenne and ginkgo.

---

Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Roots are best harvested in autumn when their potency is highest.
• Drying: Dry in thin slices or store fresh in a cool environment.
• Storage: Keep dried root in an airtight container or fresh root in the refrigerator.

---

Modern Research

Studies confirm Armoracia rusticana’s antimicrobial, expectorant, and circulatory-stimulating properties, supporting its traditional uses for respiratory and digestive health.

---

Horseradish remains a potent herbal remedy known for its ability to clear congestion, stimulate digestion, and support circulation.