Radishes offer many health and nutritional benefits

Monday, April 04, 2011 by: Shona Botes
Tags: radishes, health benefits, health news

(NewsTarget) Many people may not realize it, but radishes (known as daikens in some parts of the world) offer many health and nutritional benefits. Not only are the roots of these cruciferous vegetables nutritious, but so are their leaves. The leaves of the radish plant actually contain more Vitamin C, protein and calcium than their roots. They have been used to treat kidney and skin disorders, fight cancer and even soothe insect bites.

Radish is rich in folic acid, Vitamin C and anthocyanins. These nutrients make it a very effective cancer-fighting food. It is said that radish is effective in fighting oral cancer, colon cancer and intestinal cancer as well as kidney and stomach cancers.

Radishes contain Vitamin C, zinc, B-complex vitamins and phosphorus. All of these are very effective in treating skin disorders such as rashes and dry skin. Mashed raw radish can be used as a soothing and refreshing face pack. Dieters can benefit greatly from radishes, as they are low in calories, cholesterol and fat. They also contain a lot of roughage and contain a lot of water. Because of its high roughage content, it is also very useful in treating both piles and constipation. Radish juice helps to soothe the digestive system and detoxify the body.

Radish helps to relieve congestion within the respiratory system, making it an excellent food for asthmatics and those who suffer from bronchial infections and sinus problems. It is beneficial for both the gallbladder and liver functions, as it acts as a cleanser. It contains sulphur based chemicals, which regulate the production and flow of bilirubin and bile, enzymes and acids and also help remove excess bilirubin from the blood. This makes it an excellent detoxifying agent for the body. It protects and soothes the gallbladder and liver, while protecting them from infections.

It is also highly effective in treating jaundice, as it is able to halt the destruction of red blood cells and to increase the supply of oxygen to the blood. For this treatment however, the black radish is preferred.

Radish is a natural diuretic. This makes them effective in preventing and fighting urinary tract infections. Radish juice helps to cure the burning feeling during urinary tract or bladder infections, as it is an excellent kidney cleanser.

This root vegetable can be enjoyed either raw or cooked, as well as in juice form. It makes an excellent addition to salad dishes.

Sources:

http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/...
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/564...
http://www.everynutrient.com/healthbenefitso...

About the author

Shona Botes blogs about green living, budgeting, saving money, natural remedies and humour (which is often combined with the abovementioned topics). Her spare time is spent tending to her organic herb garden, cycling and engaging in photography.
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