Among the tubers, perhaps the least known is the black radish since it is not very attractive visually. But it has many cleansing medicinal properties that help the health of the liver, once you know the great benefits it brings us, you will want to consume it in your regular diet. Therefore, we tell you what black radish is for and its medicinal properties.
Raphanus sativus (common radish) is a species belonging to the Brassicaceae family that is generally cultivated for its edible roots. But within this species we also have the black radish, which is the most used within its family for medicinal purposes. It is very similar to the common radish, except that its skin is black, harder and difficult to eat, although inside it contains white meat that has digestive properties.
What is black radish good for?
It is very commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for conditions such as fever, digestive and intestinal problems. But science has proven that thanks to its sulfur-containing active ingredients present in its root, black radish is the main medicinal plant for liver detoxification. In addition, it also has mucolytic and antiseptic properties, which is why it is indicated for not-so-severe bronchial diseases, such as coughs or for the prevention of sinusitis.
Regarding nutrition, it is not especially rich in vitamins and minerals like its relatives (carrots or beets). What makes it special is its combination of phytochemicals that give it its main medicinal assets. In addition to being cleansing, mucolytic and antiseptic, black radish is also an antioxidant, diuretic, hepatoprotective and immunostimulant.
important phytochemicals
Among its phytochemicals are glucosinolates, which are responsible for the spiciness of some species and roots. But they are also antiviral and antibacterial and inhibit the formation of tumor blood vessels, so they can prevent some types of cancer.
But among its most notable benefits is that they help to break down cholesterol gallstones. It has been shown in experimental models that black radish helps bile and liver function, in addition to reducing blood cholesterol. Gallstones occur when certain bile pigment compounds and cholesterol solidify inside the gallbladder. Which leads to intense pain in the abdomen that can extend to the back and under the right arm.
Experimental models suggest that treatment of gallstones with black radish extract may be an effective alternative before undergoing surgery. The results indicated mainly the disintegration of stones, but also the significant reduction of LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. The latter is an important parameter to combat cardiovascular diseases.
In summary, black radish has great therapeutic potential when it comes to liver, digestive and intestinal problems.
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