December 23, 2015 · Written by Foodtolive Team
Radish Seeds: a Potent Medicine and a Nice Seasoning
Radish belongs to the cabbage family of vegetables, having inherited all the useful properties of its close relatives. This plant supposedly originates from the Mediterranean region. However, there is certain evidence that it was known and used in ancient China. The Chinese highly appreciated the medicinal and culinary properties of this plant, including those of its seeds.
Healing Properties of Radish Seeds
These oval-shaped, 3mm-long red-brown seeds are a good source of fatty acids, vitamins, especially vitamin C and folate, manganese, potassium, and many other minerals. They manifest disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant, and laxative qualities. The list of health conditions that can be treated with their help is really impressive. Here are some of them, accompanied with tips on how to apply radish seeds for relieving certain health disorders:
- Digestive problems.
The seeds are effective in treating indigestion, dyspepsia, and diarrhea. They prevent constipation and gas formation as well as relieve abdominal distension.
The recommended dosage is from 5 to 10g in decoction. The seeds should be smashed before making a decoction. - Kidney problems and kidney stones.
Various kidney disorders can be effectively treated with the help of radish seeds. Their regular consumption is desirable for those who have stones in their kidneys. Due to their diuretic properties, they help dissolve kidney stones and clear the bladder. They protect kidneys from infections and flush toxins out of them. To break up the stones and get rid of their debris from the kidneys, try to boil 30g of seeds in half a liter of water for 15 minutes, strain, and drink during a day. Proceed with doing this for 15 days. - A fat liver.
Being rich in fat (up to 30% in edible sorts), including Omega 3 fatty acids, these seeds are used to treat fat livers. In addition, they cleanse this natural filter of the body by warding toxins away.Sponsored by Food to live
- Jaundice.
This illness is characterized by an overabundance of bilirubin in the liver and blood. By controlling the production of this poisonous substance and removing it, the seeds alleviate the condition of those who are suffering from this disease. - Cancers.
Studies have shown the distinctive cancer-fighting properties of radish seeds. They are rich in flavonoids and vitamins, which are potent antioxidants and have an ability to cause the death of malignant cells by inhibiting their reproduction. The seeds can be beneficial in treating certain types of cancers, such as kidney, stomach, colon, and oral cancer. - Heart disorders and high blood pressure.
Due to the great amount of antioxidants and minerals such as potassium and magnesium contained in them, the seeds of the radish are useful in controlling blood pressure. Potassium promotes a better blood flow by relaxing blood vessels and antioxidants prevent various inflammations that can result in heart problems. The water extract helps lower cholesterol level in the blood and prevent arteriosclerosis. - Diabetes.
Although not rich in fiber, the seeds of radishes have the ability to regulate blood sugar levels by preventing sugar spikes and its fast absorption into the bloodstream. - Leucoderma, or vitiligo.
This is a relatively rare immune disease, the main symptom of which is white patches on the skin. One of the best natural remedies for curing this ailment is applications with radish seeds. You can do this in either of the two following ways:
- Make a mixture of 25g of ground seeds with 2tsp of vinegar or apple cider vinegar to get a paste. Apply this to the infected areas on the skin. After 30 minutes, wash the application with warm water.
- Soak the seeds with vinegar overnight. Make a paste with this mixture and apply on the affected places. Let it dry and then wash it off with water.
Due to these applications, the dead cells will be removed and new skin cells will grow. New white patches will stop appearing with time.
- Congestion caused by excess mucus.
Organic Radish seeds are effective in relieving cough, congestion, and a sore throat that are provoked by excessive mucus production. The following decoction will be helpful in these cases: put 12g perilla fruit, 10g white mustard, and 15g radish seeds into a stainless steel saucepan, add 3 cups (750g) water, bring to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes. Let the decoction set for a day and then strain it. Dissolve 6 – 10g of the decoction in a cup of water and drink 3 times a day. - Skin problems.
Due to their content of vitamins A and C as well as zinc, radish seeds help cope with acne and blackheads. There are different ways in which you can make use of them:
- Place the mixture of ground seeds and water on the problematic areas.
- Blend of 1tbs milk, 1tbs honey, and 1tbs radish seeds in a blender until they are a smooth mixture. Apply this on the skin and wait for two hours. Wash it off with warm water. This natural remedy is especially effective in treating chest and back acne.
- Irregular periods in women.
The treatment of oligomenorrhea and irregular periods can be aided by the intake of the following remedy: grind a handful of radish seeds, mix 1tsp of the powder and one glass of buttermilk. Drink once a day for three months. - Piles.
Due to its detoxifying properties, radish seeds may be beneficial for relieving the symptoms of piles, including pain. - The immunity and overall health.
The seeds provide a purifying effect for the overall body. They cleanse the blood, strengthen immunity, and are efficient in fighting fatigue. Studies have shown that in vitro, their water extract kills a great variety of harmful bacteria and inhibits the growth of six kinds of fungi.
Culinary Uses of Radish Seeds
Radish seeds have a pungent and slightly bitter flavor. Their culinary uses are not as numerous as their medicinal ones. They are usually added to salads, herbal vinegars, and seasonings. They go well with brown mustard seeds in condiments and spice mixes. The seeds can be used for making pickling brines, barbeque sauces, soups, and herbal teas.
Where and How to Buy
The main thing that you should be aware of is that these seeds are produced with different purposes. Certain sorts are distinguished by a very high content of fat (up to 45%) and grown as a bio-fuel. Their consumption may be harmful for your health. Therefore, buy radish seeds from stores with good reputations and be careful to check the content of fat in them. This shouldn’t exceed 30%.
Tips on Storage
Radish seeds belong to the group of the longest lasting seeds. Their possible shelf life is five years. To preserve their best qualities, you should take into consideration the following rules of storage:
- Keep the seeds in a cool place. Opt either for a refrigerator or a cellar. They should be stored at a temperature no higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep them dry. The level of humidity shouldn’t exceed 50%. Put a few packages of desiccant along with the seeds.
