Absolutely useless and tasteless root crop - today radish has gained such fame. Its benefits and harms for the body are evaluated by the example of medicinal properties. Many people know that its juice, mixed with honey, helps cough well, but at the same time it irritates the gastric mucosa and provokes exacerbations of chronic gastrointestinal diseases. Of course, this is far from all.
The composition of the bitter root
No wonder in Russia almost every day there was a radish on the table. The benefits and harms of the products were then learned through experience, a person observed, compared, evaluated which plants, herbs and root crops not only satiated, but also resisted diseases. Today we already know that radish contains vitamins A, PP, C, E, almost the entire group B. There are useful fiber, lipids, organic acids, enzymes and amino acids. The richest composition of minerals: salts of iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iodine and phosphorus - will help to remain full of strength even in the midst of winter.
The phytoncidal properties of radish are a separate line . They are caused by sulfur-containing substances: methyl mercaptan, minirin, anthocyanins. In addition to enriching the body with useful substances, vitamins and minerals, radish helps cleanse it of bacteria and viruses, which significantly reduces the risk of getting colds.
Different types of radish
Today known red, green, white and black radish. The benefits and harms of them have long been studied, and now we will examine in more detail how they differ from each other. The most useful is black radish, but it is very tough and bitter. Although, if it is cooked correctly, it will reveal the whole flavor bouquet. But it is usually used with success for treatment. Its juice destroys bacterial cells and perfectly heals wounds, sores and pustules. But it is good only for healthy people, all diseases of the gastrointestinal tract are a direct contraindication.
White radish is a salad variety, although it is also very sharp. However, flavored with dressing in the form of mayonnaise, sour cream or vegetable oil, it becomes a wonderful snack, which also helps to resist colds. White radish contains a large number of phytoncides, it is they that effectively destroy pathogenic bacteria and strengthen the immune system.
If you can’t tolerate spicy foods, then a green alternative would be green radish. Its benefits and harms are well balanced, the root crop is suitable for almost all people, except for those who are overweight. It is quite neutral in taste, it has less bitterness and, accordingly, volatile, but a lot of useful substances. Its juice stimulates the production of gastric juice, and therefore increases appetite.
This variety has many names: green, "lobo", Chinese, Margelan radish. Since the variety ripens very early, it is also called summer. Seed stores are always ready to offer a wide range of seeds from different agricultural companies. Choose the most famous brands, even if they are more expensive - high germination will pay off all costs. If you like the taste of spring vegetables, then your choice is green radish. The benefits and harms have already been discussed above. This variety is safe even for people with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys and heart. Only individual intolerance may not allow you to enjoy this beautiful root crop.
Siderat plant
Another variety is oilseed radish. This plant does not form root crops, but nevertheless is a valuable crop. Oil is extracted from its seeds, the plant itself is used as a feed crop (silage and green feed). Another option for using this amazing plant is to disinfect and fertilize the fields. A plot of depleted or contaminated land (nematodes, rot) is sown with an annual radish, and during flowering, the plants are plowed. So, the soil is enriched with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium.
Use in traditional medicine
Since childhood, we all know the taste of radish with honey. It is this folk remedy that is the best cough remedy. Absolutely safe and at the same time incredibly effective. Even if you are allergic to honey, you can replace it with jam or sugar. This remedy can be used to improve lactation.
Radish is known for its choleretic and diuretic properties, it can be used for cystitis, painful, rapid or, on the contrary, delayed urination. Often prescribed it for gynecological problems, meager or too heavy menstruation, frequent delays.
For quick resolving of bruises, treatment of bruises and rheumatism, compresses from grated radish are well suited. If a tooth is ill, and it is not possible to get to the dentist immediately, rinse your mouth with radish juice. And most importantly - this root crop normalizes metabolism and is widely used in obesity. You need to take a third glass of juice three times a day before meals, and the result will not be long in coming.
Contraindications
In small quantities, a vegetable can be consumed by everyone, but if you are thinking about introducing a radish into a constant diet, then you should ask your doctor for advice. In particular, contraindications are organic heart disease, severe liver and kidney damage. It is necessary to severely limit the consumption of radish, if there are diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: gastritis, enterocolitis, ulcer. Even if there are no such diseases in history, be sure to listen to your feelings. Pain, burning in the stomach and other unpleasant symptoms should be an occasion to abandon delicious salads from radish.
Radish in cosmetology
Grated radish and sour cream masks are used for deep cleansing, nourishing and whitening the skin. This simple folk remedy can be a real salvation for those who want to get rid of freckles. Radish juice is used as an effective activator of hair growth.
Brief conclusions
Such is the simple and almost forgotten radish now. The benefits and harms for your body will depend on you. If there is a suspicion of diseases of the heart, kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal tract, then either reduce the use to a minimum and carefully monitor your well-being, or completely abandon this product. If there are no contraindications, the radish will be an excellent source of vitamins, help to diversify the table and protect yourself from colds.