Horseradish

Scientific Name(s): Armoracia lapathiofolia Gilib., Armoracia rusticana Gaertn., Mey. and Scherb.
Common Name(s): Great raifort, Horseradish, Mountain radish, Pepperrot, Red cole

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 20, 2021.

Clinical Overview

Use

Horseradish has been used internally as a condiment, GI stimulant, diuretic, and a vermifuge, and externally for sciatica and facial neuralgia. However, there are no clinical trials to support any therapeutic use for horseradish. Animal data suggest potential antibacterial and hypotensive effects.

Dosing

Traditional use for colds and respiratory infections was 20 g/day of fresh root. Externally, preparations with 2% mustard oil have been used.

Contraindications

Contraindicated in patients with GI ulcers and in those with kidney impairment. Not recommended for children younger than 4 years of age.

Pregnancy/Lactation

Documented adverse effects. Avoid use. Use should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation because the allylisothiocyanates are toxic mucosal irritants. Horseradish has abortifacient effects.

Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Irritant effects on GI mucosa. External use may cause erythematous rash. Horseradish is part of the cabbage and mustard family; therefore, it may suppress thyroid function. The isothiocyanates may irritate mucous membranes on contact or if inhaled.

Toxicology

Ingestion of large amounts can cause bloody vomiting and diarrhea.

Scientific Family

• Brassicaceae (mustard)

Botany

Horseradish is a large-leafed, hardy perennial native to eastern Europe and western Asia.Chevallier 1996, Weiss 1992 The plant is deep-rooted, can grow to 1 m in height, and develops clusters of 4-petaled white flowers during the spring.Weiss 1992 It is cultivated commercially for its thick, fleshy, white roots that have a strong, irritating, and intensely pungent taste. Some hybrids are sterile; therefore, the plant is generally propagated through root cuttings.

History

Horseradish has been cultivated and used as a medicine and condiment for at least 2,000 years.Blumenthal 2000, Chevallier 1996, Lininger 1998, Weiss 1992 Early settlers brought the horseradish plant to America, and the plant was commonplace in gardens by the early 1800s. Hardy varieties were obtained through plant selection and grown easily in the Midwest.

The root has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It has been used to treat bronchial and urinary infections, inflammation of the joints and tissues, sinus congestion, and edema.Yu 2001 Topically, it was applied to the skin to reduce pain from sciatica and facial neuralgia. Internally, it was used to expel afterbirth, relieve colic, increase urination, and kill intestinal worms in children.Chevallier 1996, Lininger 1998

The horseradish root is used as a condiment and may be grated and mixed with other flavorings to make sauce or relish.Lininger 1998 Young, tender leaves have been used as a potherb and as a salad green. Horseradish is 1 of the 5 bitter herbs (horseradish, coriander, horehound, lettuce, nettle) consumed during the Jewish holiday of Passover.

Chemistry

The medicinal component is the root, which contains mustard oil and mustard oil glycosides.Yu 2001 The pungency of horseradish is due to the release of allylisothio...