Horseradish can help releave and treat asthma

Sonia Jones ND from The Haven Spa and Alternative Treatment Clinic.

Horseradish

It grows to about 30cm tall, with large shiny tooth-edge leaves and swollen roots. It comes from the same family as mustard and cress and is rich in sulfur.

Horseradish contains a compound called sinigrin, which acts as a decongestant. In Japan it is called wasabi, a green paste made from the dried root.

The taste is hot, similar to mustard. The part that is used is the swollen root.

It’s a stimulating herb with similar properties to cayenne pepper. It can be used like mustard as an external stimulant. Good for slow digestion, urinary infection and lung problems, as well as rheumatism but is especially good for clearing the sinuses and helping breathing problems. It is also antibacterial.

The fresh root can be kept for sometime in the fridge. Or completely cover finely grated fresh horseradish with apple cider vinegar and let it stand for 10 days, strain and store in a cool dark place.Take 1 teasp 2 to3 times a day diluted in a little warm water. To improve digestion, take 30 minutes before meal.

To make a tea – ½ teaspoon of powder or 1teasp of the fresh chopped herb in a cup of boiled water, steep for 5mins and drink 3 times a day or more often in cases of flu.

A small amount of wasabi paste held in the mouth will ease sinus congestion and breathing.

Horseradish is traditionally eaten with roast beef, to improve digestion.