Most folks probably do not know that horseradish is related to cabbage, brussel sprouts and related cruciferous vegetables. Over the centuries it has been used as a multipurpose herbal remedy to treat a variety of ailments from the common cold to headaches. Recent medical studies have identified a new application based on the anticancer effects of horseradish. It turns out that horseradish contains large amounts of cancer-fighting compounds known as glucosinolates. These compounds amplify the ability of the liver to detoxify carcinogens. This detoxifying action by the liver may suppress the growth of cancerous tumors. Although all the cruciferous or Brassica vegetables contain these compounds, horseradish contains nearly ten times as much glucosinolates as broccoli. This is good news for folks who are choosing foods in their diet to promote senior health.

Once horseradish is enters the digestive system its glucosinolates are broken down into isothiocyanates and indoles that appear to be the principal agents that cause the desired anticancer effects. The anticancer effects are twofold. The liver uses them to detoxify carcinogens, in order to prevent cancers from getting started. In the case of an already existing cancer they can apparently suppress the growth of that cancer. Finally horseradish is one of the few medicinal vegetables that is improved by processing, because processing horseradish releases an already present enzyme that breaks down the glucosinolates into the desired cancer-fighting compounds.