The radish is an edible root vegetable of the Brassicaceae family that was domesticated in Europe in pre-Roman times. They are grown and consumed throughout the world. Radishes have numerous varieties, varying in size, color and duration of required cultivation time. There are some radishes that are grown for their seeds; oilseed radishes are grown, as the name implies, for oil production. Radish can sprout from seed to small plant in as little as 3 days.
The descriptive Greek name of the genus Raphanus means "quickly appearing" and refers to the rapid germination of these plants. Raphanistrum, from the same Greek root, is an old name once used for this genus. The common name "radish" is derived from Latin radix.
Radishes are round to cylindrical with a color ranging from white to red. A longer root form, ideal for cooking, grows up to 15 cm long, while the smaller, rounder form is typically eaten raw in salads. The flesh initially tastes sweet, but becomes bitter if the vegetable is left in the ground for too long. Leaves are arranged in a rosette, with sizes ranging from 10–15 cm in small cultivars, to up to 45 cm in large cultivars. They have a lyrate shape, meaning they are divided pinnately with an enlarged terminal lobe and smaller lateral lobes. The white flowers are borne on a racemose inflorescence.
The radish is a diploid species, and has 18 chromosomes.
Although there are many varieties of radishes available, the following nutritional table will evaluate the content in a serving size of approximately 100 grams, which is one whole raw radish. The low quantities of saturated fat and cholesterol is due to the high water content in radishes (around 90%) and in addition to this, they contain a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. Radishes also have both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Some of the most important nutrients and minerals found in radishes include potassium, vitamin C, folate, fiber, manganese, copper, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B6, riboflavin and sodium.
The reason that radishes do a great job of treating jaundice is because they are a powerful detoxifier which makes them good for both the stomach and liver by eliminating waste and toxins. The fact that they additionally remove bilirubin and keep production of this compound stable makes them a useful treatment for jaundice. They can even increase the blood’s supply of oxygen and in turn help reduce the red blood cell destruction that jaundice causes.
One of the main causes of piles is constipation and because of its status as roughage which is made up of indigestible carbohydrates radishes can help fight this problem. Radishes can also help with water retention and digestion. Because it is a good detoxifier, a radish can also help quickly reduce symptoms of piles. Consumption of the juice will relieve even more symptoms by soothing the excretory and digestive systems.
Because radishes are diuretic by nature, they will increase urine production. They are also an excellent way to help cure burning sensations during urination as well as inflammation. In addition, because they help clean out your kidneys as well as inhibit infections, they help treat various urinary conditions which may be made worse by excess toxins.
Because radishes are incredibly filling, they are a great way to satisfy hunger and keep a low caloric intake. In addition due to their high quantities of roughage, water and low quantities of digestible carbs, they are a great dietary option. Because radishes have a good amount of fiber but a low glycemic index, they can increase the regularity of bowel movements, helping with the metabolism and weight loss.
Due to their high levels of vitamin C, anthocyanins and folic as well as detoxifying abilities, radishes are associated with treating several cancers such as oral, stomach, intestinal, kidney and colon. They also contain a great deal of antioxidants and isothiocyanates which alter the cancerous cells’ genetic pathways, causing them to die and be incapable of reproducing.
Radishes can be used to treat leucoderma because of their anti-carcinogenic properties as well as detoxifying abilities. You can either use the powdered seeds soaked in cow’s urine, ginger juice or vinegar and apply them to the areas or simply eat the radish.
Many of the nutrients found in radishes such as some B vitamins, zinc, phosphorus and vitamin C benefit the skin. In addition the water content helps the skin stay hydrated and the disinfectant properties can clear up problems such as cracks, rashes and dry skin. When smashed, raw radish also serves as a good face pack and cleanser.
Because of their anti-pruritic properties, radishes can be effective in treating bee stings and insect bites. The juice will also sooth affected areas and reduce pain.
Radishes are effective at lowering the body temperature as well as relieving inflammation due to fevers.
Radishes’ abilities as a disinfectant, cleanser and most importantly a diuretic make it great for treating kidney disorders. They will wash away any toxins which have built up in the kidneys as well as decreasing their accumulation in the blood. They will also protect the kidneys from infection.
Because radishes are anti-congestive, they can decrease congestion in the respiratory system as well as irritation due to allergies, infections or colds. Because of their richness in vitamins as well as their disinfectant properties, they also help protect against infections.
Radishes help regulation the flow and production of bilirubin and bile, enzymes and acids. They also contain enzymes such as esterase, amylase, diastase and myrosinase and help remove any excess bilirubin from your bloodstream. Eating them regularly can also protect you from ulcers and infections.
Radishes can also serve as a metabolism regulator, laxative, breath freshener and appetizer. Normal consumption can also improve blood circulation as well as treat dyspepsia, gall stones, gastric problems, whooping cough, sore throat, obesity, nausea, acidity and headaches.
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