Description
Traditionally, the horseradish roots (Armoraciarusticana in Latin) used in pharmaceutical products should be at least 1.5 cm in diameter.
Chemical Composition
The horseradish is rich with various steroids, including flavonoides, campesterol and β-sitosterol. Further, the horseradish contains gluconasturtiin, sinigrin, isothio- and thiocyanates, allyl thiocyanate, allyl thiocyanate and allyl isothiocyanate acids, other nitrogenated compounds, and mustard oil (up to 0.2%). Thanks to the phytoncides it contains the horseradish is called a “natural antibiotic”.
The horseradish contains fragrance oils which produce the pronounced smell. Furthermore, the root is rich with vitamins, micronutrients and antioxidants. For instance, the horseradish contains more vitamin C than lemons, and is rich with vitamin B. Sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium are the major micronutrients in its chemical composition.
Pharmacological Properties
Horseradish juice has antibacterial, enzymatic, protistocidal, antifungal and antibiotic effects. Horseradish tincture relieves inflammations, strengthens the immune system, and has antimicrobial effect. Further, horseradish-based products increase gastric secretion, stimulate function of organs and systems of the body, and improve appetite.
Use in Health and Beauty Products
First accounts of use of horseradish in Russia date back to the 14th century. Peoples of Europe started using it widely at the beginning of the 15th century. The horseradish was used to spice food and to cure people. In traditional medicine horseradish juice has been used to treat influenza, otitis, toothache, liver diseases, hepatitis, festering wounds, fungal skin infections, and bruises. In addition, horseradish is used in beauty products to remove pigment spots and narrow pores. And this list of uses of this unpretentious plant is far from being exhaustive.
“Milamed” Company uses horseradish in “Respir-X”.