Horseradish
Uses
Parts Used & Where Grown
Horseradish likely originated in Eastern Europe, but today it is cultivated worldwide. The root is used as both food and medicine.
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3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
|---|---|
1 Star Bronchitis Refer to label instructions | Horseradish contains antibacterial substances and has mucus-clearing properties that are beneficial for people with bronchitis. contains substances similar to mustard, such as glucosinolates and allyl isothiocynate. In addition to providing possible antibacterial actions, these substances may also have expectorant (mucus-expelling) properties that are supportive for people with bronchitis. |
1 Star Common Cold and Sore Throat Refer to label instructions | Horseradish has antibiotic properties, which may account for its usefulness in easing throat and upper respiratory tract infections. Elderberry has shown antiviral activity and thus may be useful for some people with common colds. Elder flowers are a traditional diaphoretic remedy for helping to break fevers and promote sweating during a cold. has antibiotic properties, which may account for its usefulness in easing throat and upper respiratory tract infections. The resin of the herb myrrh has been shown to kill various microbes and to stimulate macrophages (a type of white blood cell). Usnea has a traditional reputation as an antiseptic and is sometimes used for people with common colds. |
1 Star Sinusitis Refer to label instructions | Horseradish is an herb used traditionally as a mucus-dissolver. is another herb used traditionally as a mucus-dissolver. One half to one teaspoon (3–5 grams) of the freshly grated root can be eaten three times per day. Horseradish tincture is also available. One quarter to one half teaspoon (2 to 3 ml) can be taken three times per day. |
1 Star Urinary Tract Infection Refer to label instructions | The volatile oil of horseradish has been shown to kill bacteria that can cause UTIs. The volatile oil of has been shown to kill bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections. The concentration that is required to kill these bacteria can be attained in human urine after oral ingestion of the oil. One early study found that horseradish extract may help people with urinary tract infections. Further studies are necessary to confirm the safety and effectiveness of horseradish in treating urinary tract infections. |
Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)
Horseradish, known for its pungent taste, has been used as a medicine and condiment for centuries in Europe. Its name is derived from the common practice of naming a food according to its similarity with another food (horseradish was considered a rough substitute for radishes).
Horseradish was utilized both internally and externally by European herbalists. Applied to the skin, it causes reddening and was used on arthritic joints or irritated nerves. Internally, it was considered to be a diuretic and was used by herbalists to treat kidney stones or edema. It was also recommended as a digestive stimulant and to treat worms, coughs, and sore throats.1
How It Works
Horseradish contains volatile oils that are similar to those found in mustard. These include glucosinolates (mustard oil glycosides), gluconasturtiin, and sinigrin, which yield allyl isothiocynate when broken down in the stomach. In test tubes, the volatile oils in horseradish have shown antibiotic properties, which may account for its effectiveness in treating throat and upper respiratory tract infections.2 At levels attainable in human urine after taking the volatile oil of horseradish, the oil has been shown to kill bacteria that can cause urinary tract infections3 and one early trial found that horseradish extract may be a useful treatment for people with urinary tract infections.4 Further studies are still necessary, however, to confirm horseradish’s safety and effectiveness in treating urinary tract infections.
How to Use It
The German Commission E monograph suggests an average daily intake of 4 teaspoons (20 grams) of the fresh root for adults.5 Alternatively, 1/2–1 teaspoon (3–5 grams) of the freshly grated root can be eaten three times per day. Horseradish tincture is also available and is sometimes taken at 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–3 ml) three times daily. The German Commission E also recommends external use of horseradish for respiratory tract congestion as well as minor muscle aches. A poultice can be prepared by grating the fresh root and spreading it on a linen cloth or thin gauze. This is then applied against the skin once or twice per day until a burning sensation is experienced.
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
Interactions with Medicines
Side Effects
If used in amounts higher than recommended, horseradish can cause stomach upset,6 vomiting, or excessive sweating. Direct application to the skin or eyes may cause irritation and burning. Horseradish should be avoided by people with hypothyroidism, gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, and kidney disorders. Horseradish should not be used by women during pregnancy or breast-feeding or by children under four years of age.7
1. Grieve M. A Modern Herbal, vol 2. New York: Dover Publications, 1971, 417-9.
2. Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine. Gothenburg, Sweden: Ab Arcanum, 1988, 207.
3. Kienholz VM, Kemkes B. The anti-bacterial action of ethereal oils obtained from horse radish root (Cochlearia armoracia L.). Arzneimittelforschung 1961;10:917-8 [in German].
4. Schindler VE, Zipp H, Marth I. Comparative clinical investigations of an enzyme glycoside mixture obtained from horse radish roots (Cochlearia armoracia L). Arzneimittelforschung 1961;10:919-21 [in German].
5. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 150.
6. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 150.
7. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, et al. (eds). The Complete Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 1998, 150.
Last Review: 04-14-2015
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