Horseradish: A Powerful Herbal Remedy

Ever take a bite of a roast beef sandwich and feel like your nose is on fire? Chances are, it had horseradish, a close relative of mustard. A small amount of this fiery condiment can instantly clear your sinuses.

Horseradish Applications and Benefits

Whether added to a roast beef sandwich or used in herbal remedies, horseradish helps clear sinuses, boosts circulation in the face, and encourages the expulsion of mucus from the respiratory system. It has been a trusted medicinal plant for centuries.

Horseradish is effective for sinus infections as it helps your body flush out mucus. A sinus infection often begins with a buildup of thick mucus, which creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive and cause pain. Horseradish aids in thinning and removing this thicker mucus, making it easier to expel. If you tend to get sinus infections, consider taking horseradish at the first sign of a cold to stop mucus from accumulating. Herbalists also use it to treat colds, flu, and lung congestion. Keep in mind, though, that increased mucus flow after using horseradish isn’t a bad sign—it means your body is eliminating toxins, so just let it run its course for a couple of days.

Horseradish has a mild antibiotic effect and stimulates urine production, making it useful for treating urinary infections. If you suffer from chronic infections of any kind, horseradish is considered safe for long-term use. It’s also occasionally applied topically to soothe arthritis and nerve pain. Historically, it has been used as a poultice for infected wounds. However, horseradish may cause skin redness, irritation, or a rash in some individuals. Continue reading to find out more about horseradish’s uses and preparation methods, including a recipe for horseradish-cranberry holiday relish.

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The information provided here is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. The Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, and publisher are not liable for any consequences that may arise from following any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary change, or medication suggested by this content. This publication is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider or physician. Always consult your doctor before beginning any new treatment or health regimen. Additionally, be aware that many complementary treatments, including herbal remedies, have not been extensively studied. Using these remedies in combination with prescribed medications can lead to serious adverse reactions. Furthermore, regulations about whether practitioners need to be professionally licensed vary by state. If seeking a practitioner, it is recommended to choose one accredited by a recognized national body. Always check with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new health practices.

Horseradish Preparations and Safety Precautions

As with any herb, there are certain precautions to take before using horseradish for medicinal purposes.

Horseradish Preparations and Recommended Dosage

Fresh horseradish root can be stored for months in a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. (Fresh root is preferred for medicinal use, but pre-made horseradish can serve as an alternative in urgent situations.) To prepare, grate the horseradish using a food processor or blender. (Alternatively, a hand grater works, though you may find it hard to see through the tears!) You can add honey or sugar, and vinegar to taste (about 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar and 1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of horseradish). If you can handle the strong flavor, try spreading 1/4 teaspoon of prepared horseradish on a cracker, or mix it into warm water with some honey. Horseradish can also be applied topically as a poultice to treat wounds or soaked in tea and used as a compress for the affected area. If you notice redness, irritation, or a rash on the skin, discontinue use. Side Effects of Horseradish A mild headache, particularly behind the nose, is a common but short-lived side effect. Excessive or repeated consumption of horseradish may lead to stomach upset or vomiting. Topical use may cause rashes or inflammation. If you have had digestive issues after consuming other sulfur-containing cruciferous vegetables like cabbage or broccoli, you may want to avoid horseradish, as even a small amount could upset your stomach.

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Dr. Jennifer Brett, N.D. is the director of the Acupuncture Institute at the University of Bridgeport and also serves as a faculty member at the College of Naturopathic Medicine. A respected expert in her field, Dr. Brett has vast experience using nutritional and botanical remedies to treat a range of conditions. She has been featured on WABC TV (NYC) and Good Morning America, where she shared insights on the use of herbs for health. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author, nor the publisher assume any responsibility for consequences arising from any treatment, exercise, procedure, dietary change, or medication action based on this information. This publication does not substitute for the practice of medicine, nor does it replace consultations with your healthcare provider. Always seek professional medical advice before starting any treatment. Additionally, many alternative health practices, including herbal remedies, may not have been evaluated in scientific studies. Combining these remedies with prescribed medications can lead to harmful reactions. If you plan to consult a practitioner, make sure they are properly licensed by a recognized national organization. Always speak with your primary healthcare provider before initiating any new treatments.