Horseradish plant is a perennial plant which belongs to the cabbage family. It is usually grown for its roots. It has narrow and large leaves about 10-30 cm long. The plant grows upto the height of 45-75 cm. The roots possess a spicy taste which is used as a seasoning. This plant is inherent to Eastern Europe and is grown widely in North America and Europe. The essential oil of horseradish is extracted from roots by steam distillation process. This fluid is pale yellow in color. It is not supposed to be taken internally due to its toxicity. This oil is effective to promote heart health, lower blood pressure, promote weight loss and build strong bones.

History

Native to Southern Europe and Western Asia and got introduced to Europe in 13th century. In 1500 B.C. E. it was known to Egypt and was used by Jews of Eastern Europe in Passover Seders. Pliny the Elder in Natural history mentioned Horseradish in the name of Amoracia and recommended for its medicinal purposes. During Middle Ages, both leaves and roots were used as medicine. In Britain, Scandinavia and Germany, the roots were used as a condiment for meats. During Colonial times, it was brought to North America.

Traditional uses

• It helps to build strong bones, lower blood pressure, promote weight loss and heart health.
• It also enhances immune system and prevents infections.
• It prevents the growth of bacteria.

Precautions                                                                                                 

• It should not be used internally or ingested.
• People allergic to horseradish should not use it.
• People with sensitive skin could get allergic reactions.
• The people with kidney problems should avoid it.

Horseradish oil facts

This oil is derived from the steam distillation of roots. This oil is pale yellow in color. The smell resembles hot mustard seed oil.

Horseradish oil facts and benefits Quick Facts
Name:	Horseradish oil facts and benefits
Origin	Native to Southern Europe and Western Asia and got introduced to Europe in 13th century.
Colors	Pale yellow
Health benefits	Bone health, Lowers blood pressure, Promote weight loss, Prevent infection, Strengthen immunity

Name	Horseradish oil facts and benefits
Native	Native to Southern Europe and Western Asia and got introduced to Europe in 13th century.
Common/English Name of Horseradish Plant	Mountain Radish, Great Raifort, Red Cole
Name in Other Languages of Horseradish Plant	French: Great Raifort, Mountain Radish, Horse Plant, Red cole, Cranson de Bretagne, moutarde des Allemands, Cran, raifort; German: Kren, Meerrettich, Meerrettish; Italian: rafano, cren, barbaforte; Spanish: taramago, rábano rusticano, rábano picante, cochlearia; Danish: Peberrod; Dutch: Mierikswortel, Boereradijs, Mierik, Kreno, Meredik; Estonian: Mädaroigas, Aed-mädaroigas; Finnish: Piparjuuri; Gaelic: Meacan-each; Hungarian: Közönséges torma, Torma; Icelandic: Piparrót; Norwegian: Pepperrot; Polish: Chrzan zwyczajny, Chrzan pospolity; Portuguese: armorácio, Raiz-forte; Romanian: Hrean; Russian: khren, Khrjen; Swahili: Mronge; Swedish: skörbjuggsört, Pepparrot; Chinese: lagen; Japanese: seijô wasabi; Arabic: fujl har
Color	Pale yellow
Odor	Pungent
Traditional uses	It assists in building strong bones, lowering blood pressure, promoting weight loss as well as heart health. It strengthens immunity power and prevents infections. It prevents bacteria growth.
Precautions	Do not ingest or use internally. Allergic people should avoid its use. People with sensitive skin could get allergic reactions. The people having kidney problems should also avoid it.