by M.J. Holliday

Created on: December 12, 2010

Horse radish or horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is a zesty root herb used in medicine and cuisine. This hardy plant is native to Europe and western Asia, and has been cultivated since ancient times.

In Egypt, records of horseradish appear as early as 1500 BC. In Greek mythology, the Delphic Oracle tells Apollo that horseradish is worth its weight in gold. Pliny the Elder wrote of the healing properties of horseradish in the first century AD.

Horseradish is a member of the mustard family, or Brassicaceae. During the Middle Ages, the leaves and root of horseradish were popular medicinal cures for cough and indigestion. Inhabitants of Germany, Scandinavia and Britain also used horseradish as a meat condiment. Horseradish came to America during Colonial times in the 1700s.

Horseradish root has a spicy, invigorating flavor. While intact, the root has almost no fragrance. When crushed, the destruction of enzymes creates mustard oil and a pungent burst of aroma. Like onions, horseradish can irritate the eyes and sinuses when chopped or grated.

Fresh grated horseradish must be mixed with vinegar. Exposed to air, the root darkens, loses its characteristic tangy flavor, and turns bitter.

Horseradish is prized as a culinary condiment, especially for beef and as an ingredient in seafood sauce. The roots, flowers and leaves are all edible. Japanese horseradish is known as wasabi.

In herbal medicine, horseradish is used as a diuretic, and to treat digestive disorders, bronchitis, urinary tract infections and sinus infections. Horseradish also has antimicrobial properties to kill some strains of bacteria.

Nutritionally, horseradish is high in vitamin C, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and potassium.

How To Grow Horseradish

Horseradish grows to about two feet tall and eighteen inches wide, and needs generous growing room.

Horseradish is a perennial. It can grow as an annual in climates less suited to its needs, but the plant is of lower quality. The hardiness zones for horseradish are 2 - 9. Plant in early spring, as soon as the ground thaws, or plant in fall at the same time as garlic or onions.

Plant horseradish immediately after receiving the root. Left exposed too long, horseradish will wither and die. If necessary, wrap the root in plastic and store for a short time in the refrigerator.

Horseradish likes full sunlight, but will tolerate partial shade. Give this hardy plant plenty of room to grow. The preferred soil pH is 5.5 - 7. A moist, loamy soil with plenty of organic

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>