The radish or Raphanus sativus was originally grown in Asia and the Mediterranean, then was cultivated by the Egyptians, who even included them in drawings found on their tombs and temple walls. As well as garlic and onions, radishes were considered a health-promoting food and were given to the labourers building the pyramids, in about 2900 BC, as a form of payment.
The Health Benefits of Radishes
They are a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals, but of significance is the high content of potassium which works as an antacid. Potassium is also essential for metabolism equilibrium, as well as for the excretion of wastes and fluid.
Radishes stimulate the function of every gland, promoting gastric and salivary activity, which benefits digestion, and prevents bloating and pressure on the stomach. They also contain dietary fibre, which is important for a healthy bowel.
Radishes are decongestants
Folklore lists the radish as a decongestant, as well as being beneficial for gall and biliary ducts. In the past, herbalists used it for the prevention and treatment of gall bladder disorders, particularly gallstones – fresh radish juice is a choleretic, promoting the flow of bile. Only those who get gall bladder attacks know how painful they can be. Pharmacist, Walter Schönenberger, always had a small bottle of radish juice in his pocket, so he could offer relief to his wife when she suffered an attack.
Radishes help with liver and gall bladder health
Our liver and gall bladder are among the most important organs of digestion which is why we must keep them healthy – eating a few radishes daily, without salt, has been known to achieve liver regeneration. I remember a story about a German doctor who had suffered a liver complaint for years, until a friend recommended a radish cure. For three weeks he ate radishes, wholemeal bread, butter and potatoes, then he had his liver checked. Test results showed his liver to be in excellent condition, which left the doctors absolutely speechless as they had never witnessed such an improvement in the case of a liver disorder.
More about radishes
Radishes are root vegetables, belonging to the same plant family as the cabbage (the Brassicas) and are related to mustards, which explains their crisp, crunchy texture and distinctive peppery taste … so eat them raw or cooked and kick start your digestive health today!
Find out more about the medicinal benefits of radishes and other plants through enrolling in our Online Herbal Medicine Course today!