Horseradish - 2011 Herb of the Year
(Armoracia rusticana)
USDA Certified Organically Grown Medicinal Herbs, Certified by Global Culture
Horseradish - Herb of the Year
Horseradish (syn. Cochlearia armoracia Mountain Radish, Great Raifort, Red Cole)
The True origin of horseradish is a bit mysterious with some agreement that it was originally found growing wild in the Mediterranean region, along with west Asia and eventually could be found naturalized throughout Europe. It has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and throughout history the pungent roots of this hardy perennial have been used both medicinally and as a spicy condiment. Both the leaves and the roots were highly regarded as medicinal in ancient Egypt, ancient Greece and ancient Rome. In the Jewish tradition, horseradish was incorporated into the Passover celebration as one of the six symbolic foods, representing the bitter toil of being enslaved by the Egyptians.
During the middle ages its use was widespread as a digestive stimulant, particularly after a rich meal and it was commonly served as a condiment with meats in Germany, Denmark, and throughout Eastern Europe. Traditional healers used a syrup made from the roots for soothing a sore throat and hoarseness while an infused vinegar was said to remove freckles, and a horseradish infused wine was said to increase perspiration.
The root and the leaves share medicinal qualities but the root has a more extreme pungency which is very stimulating when eaten and the aromatics can truly clear your sinuses. Horseradish root is naturally high in vitamin C and is a favorite addition to the vinegar based remedy known as Fire Cider. An excellent remedy for all respiratory conditions, the root is also a strong diuretic and stimulant, and can be used externally as a poultice to increase circulation.
Horseradish is a long lived, hardy perennial preferring a rich soil with plenty of manure and sun. Reaching a height of 2 feet with large, pointed green leaves, some of which are slightly scalloped, horseradish eventually sports small white flowers but does not form seed and can only be propagated by crown divisions or root cuttings. Horseradish deserves a spacious corner of the yard as it will spread freely but is easily controlled by an annual Fall digging session, filling your kitchen with the aroma of pungent roots blended with vinegar ready to accompany your rich winter feasting. Aid your digestion through the holidays and keep your respiratory system healthy through the winter ahead.
Horseradish is easy to grow, very productive and hardy to Zone 3.
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