Armoracia Rusticana - horseradish

Armoracia Rusticana, generally known as a horseradish, is a versatile and impressive plant from the family of the Kreuzblütler (Brassicaceae). This plant is not only known for its sharp taste and culinary purposes, but also for its long history in traditional medicine.

Botanical characteristics

Armoracia Rusticana is a persistent plant that usually reaches a height of around 60 to 90 centimeters. The plant is characterized by its deep green, lanceolate leaves, which have a slightly jagged structure. The leaves are fundamental and are in a rosette. The flowers of horseradish are small, white and appear in upright inflorescences. The roots of the plant are the striking feature that is most frequently used in the kitchen and medicine. They are long, cylindrical and have a brownish bowl.

Use in the kitchen

Horseradish is known for its sharp and spicy taste. The roots of the plant are peeled and then grated or processed into a paste. This paste is used in many culinary preparations to give the dishes a sharp note. Well -known applications are horseradish sauces, mustard and as a side dish to meat dishes. The sharp sharpness of the horseradish can be attributed to mustard oils such as allylisothiocyanate, which arise in the cells of the root when it is crushed or cut.

Medical properties

In traditional medicine, horseradish is estimated due to its potential health benefits. The roots of the plant contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including mustard oils, flavonoids and vitamin C. These compounds give horseradish anti -inflammatory, antibiotic and antioxidant properties. Due to these properties, horseradish in folk medicine was used to treat respiratory diseases, indigestion and rheumatism.

Cultural meaning

Horseradish has achieved cultural importance in some cultures. For example, horseradish in some countries, especially in Eastern European regions, is served as a traditional side dish for certain festive dishes such as Easter roast. In Jewish culture, horseradish plays an important role in the celebrations of the Passahfest and symbolizes the bitterness of slavery.