Health Benefits of Horseradish... yes, Horseradish!

Looking at this picture, many people may not ever realize that this is horseradish in its natural state! Yes, horseradish is a root, similar to tumeric and ginger. It is a root vegetable that is part of the Brassicaceae family which also includes wasabi, mustard, broccoli and cabbage. It is a powerful and pungent plant which also has many health benefits. This is why it is a key ingredient in my Fire Cider. The powerful aroma that affects our sinuses is why horseradish is more commonly used as a condiment, rather than as a vegetable itself. Here are some of the many health benefits:

1. Boosts Immunity. Horseradish is filled with nutrients, phytochemicals and Vitamin C. Together these have antioxidant properties that stimulate white blood cell production, our body's main line of defense.
2. Improves Respiratory Conditions: This may come as no surprise. Similar to wasabi, horseradish has a strong pungent odor that can make our eyes water and clear the sinuses. Just taking a strong sniff of the horseradish root can help to clear the mucous secretions in the sinus and respiratory tract due to colds and alleries.
3. Antibacterial: Horseradish can be great to help fight microbes and bacterial infections.

Other health benefits include: Weight loss/metabolism, Lowers Blood Pressure, and Improves Digestion.

The easiest way to prepare horseradish is to peel away the brown skin of the root and shred the white part to add to food and makes a great infusion with vodka if you like a spicy bloody mary. Enjoy!

Herb- Drug Interactions

One of the most common misconceptions about herbs and supplements is the thought: "These are all natural, so I can take what I want and how much I want." This is definitely not the case. I have always told my patients, you can probably do more damage with herbs than you can with acupuncture. Herbs are a powerful medicine and it is important to always inform your provider what medications you are taking. One of the most common interactions is that of Chinese herbs affecting a patient taking blood thinners. Many herbs can enhance or inhibit the actions of these drugs.

More and more research is showing how supplements are interfering with cancer drugs and chemotherapy. As in the video link below, Shelly started loading up on "Immune Enhancing" supplements while undergoing cancer treatment. She was even taking up to 60 pills per day! This actually had a counter affect and made her white blood cell level drop, causing her to delay her chemotherapy treatments for weeks.

All in all, most herbs and supplements are safe to take. You should always tell your healthcare provider what prescription drugs as well as what herbs and supplements you are taking.

http://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/video/some-supplements-can-interfere-with-prescription-medicine-study-finds-647771715888