Oriental Radish/Daikon (Japanese for ‘big root’) or mooli, Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus, is a mild-flavored winter radish usually characterized by fast-growing leaves and a long, white, napiform root. Originally native to continental East Asia,^[rx] daikon is harvested and consumed throughout the region, as well as in South Asia, and is now available internationally. In some locations daikon is planted for its ability to break up compacted soils and recover nutrients, but not harvested.

Oriental radish (scientific name Raphanus sativus L. var longipinnatus Baile) is a winter radish with mild flavor featuring fast-growing leaves & long, napiform and white roots. It is native to continental East Asia, it is consumed throughout the region and South Asia. It has many variations and has different names such as Chinese radish, Japanese radish, Korean radish, and others. The roots are elongated like carrots, plump and oblong. Oriental radishes take 55 or 60 days to 120 days to fully mature. Seeds are sown in early fall or summer in order to 2 to 3 months of adequately moist and warm weather. Radishes are stir-fried, added to stews or make of radish pudding.

The name Daikon is derived from two Japanese words such as “dai” which means “large” and “kon” which means “root”. Roots are 6 to 20 inches long and 2 to 4 inches in diameter. There are 3 distinct shapes such as oblong, spherical and cylindrical. It is used by the Asian population for Asian dishes. When compared to other vegetables, oriental radish is produced more in Japan.

Health Benefits of Oriental radish

1. Respiratory health

Oriental radish possesses anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties which maintain respiratory tract and lungs health. Infection by virus and bacteria promotes mucus production that could obstruct airways and causes difficulty in breathing. It is notable in people with chronic allergies. Consisting of bioflavonoids associated with Vitamin C helps to upgrade lung function and lower the chances of asthma attacks.

2. Digestive health

After the food intake, foods must be broken down by various enzymes which start in the mouth. Oriental radishes have amylase and protease in it which supports the breakdown of carbohydrates and protein. This radish is highly recommended for those with impaired digestive abilities. The high content of fiber is beneficial for preventing constipation and maintaining healthy bowel function, retaining water in the stool, and adding bulk so that it moves easily through the digestive tract.

3. Kidney health

Kidneys are accountable for filtering blood, recycling water, and taking vital nutrients back to circulation so it could be reused. It also supports the excretion of water-soluble waste by diuresis and the process of urination. Kidneys fail to process adequate fluid under some conditions, such condition is termed as reduced filtration rate. For this, the use of medication and external foods are essential to improve urination. It stimulates diuresis by preventing waste compilation in kidneys where it can form painful renal stones.

4. Cancer prevention

The study was conducted to know its role in preventing cancer especially stomach cancer. Oriental radish excludes nitrosamine compounds, highly carcinogenic nitrogen-based molecules known as the byproducts of smoked food. Besides this, it encompasses phenolic compounds which upgrade resistance to cancer and lower the chances of free radical effects on cells.

5. Stronger immune function

White blood cells are responsible for immunity functions which lower vulnerability to illness. The high content of Vitamin C helps to boost nutrients. Also, it is related to elevated production of white blood cells with intensified anti-oxidant activities. Oxidation is the cause of DNA damage and results in defective cells production which could turn out to be cancerous. It also speeds up the healing of wounds and infections. So this could minimize the duration of illness.

6. Diabetic-friendly

Oriental radish is low in carbohydrates which makes it a perfect choice to assimilate into a diet for diabetics. It won’t cause a spike in blood sugar and high content of fiber adds plus points to its benefits. This radish slows sugar absorption and keeps the insulin stable. This assists in having control of the diabetic condition.

7. Blood pressure management

Potassium is a mineral crucial for blood pressure regulation and maintains healthy blood vessels. Sodium causes an increase in blood pressure with its constricting effects on blood vessels. It relaxes blood vessels and balances fluids in the blood. It discharges excessive water by kidneys which maintain normal blood pressure.

8. Assist in building body

Sufficient minerals and vitamins are a must for building the body. Oriental radish has adequate amounts of iron and copper.  Moreover, it prevents the chances of anemia and progress energy levels, transporting oxygen to cells and energy metabolism. Women are recommended to consume oriental radish as they lose blood every month during the menstrual cycle.

9. Folate content

Folate is predominant for a healthy pregnancy. Oriental radish root delivers 1/4 of the daily recommended intake. Folate is a must to assure a healthy pregnancy.  The intake of various vegetables is the best way to fulfill the daily requirement.

10. Brain health

Stress and oxidation have a major effect on the nervous system and especially the brain. It forms homocysteine that damages brain cells and halts premature cognitive decline. Folate breaks down homocysteine into methionine which serves various functions. Folate deficiency can be experienced from a young age in the nervous system. It has an effect unborn child’s development. For this, folate is a crucial mineral at the time of pregnancy. Its regular intake helps to meet the requirements of folate and lowers the chances of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

11. Strengthen bones

Oriental radish helps to meet calcium requirements. Adding bone-friendly nutrients to the diet helps in preventing osteoporosis as people age. It facilitates mobility and lowers the chances of fractures.

Culinary uses

• In Japan, various types of pickles are formed with oriental radish which includes bettarazuke and takuan. It is grated and combined into ponzu, a soy sauce, and citrus juice.
• Oriental radish has been dried and shredded. The sprouts are used for garnishing sashimi or salads.
• Oriental radish leaves are the part of Festival of Seven Herbs known as suzushiro.
• In China, oriental radish is used to make turnip cake and chai tow kway. The variety is known as mooli which has high water content and it is recommended to salt and drain before it is cooked.
• In Pakistan, young leaves are boiled and flash-fried with a combination of garlic, heated oil, red chili, ginger, and various species. It is consumed as a salad seasoned with salt, pepper, and chaat masala.
• In Bangladesh, oriental radish is grated and combined with coriander, fresh chili, lime juice, flaked steamed fish, and salt.
• In North India, oriental radish is an ingredient in stuffed parathas, sabzi, salads, pickles, and pagodas.
• Leaves are used to make kadhi, dal, and other dishes.

Medicinal uses

• Daily intake of radish helps to lose weight and enhance the efficiency of metabolism for all bodily processes.
• Radish helps to treat kidney, colon, oral, stomach, and intestinal cancers.
• Intake of raw radish provides relief from constipation, diarrhea, and irregular bowel movements. It supports digestion by producing bile enzymes.
• It promotes immunity, clears mucous from the throat, combat cold and cough.
• Taking in radish provides radiant and young-looking skin. Apply the crushed radish on the skin.
• Potassium in radish helps to lower blood pressure.
• Radish controls sugar absorption into the bloodstream which is beneficial for diabetics.
• Drink a tea made of oriental radish after a meal to facilitate digestion.
• A restorative drink made of oriental radish and seaweed is used to wipe out toxins from the body.
• A cup of grated root helps to erase the symptoms of a hangover.

Side Effects

• Do not take radish with black gram or fish. Or do not drink milk soon after consuming radish.
• Some might experience asthma or dermatitis after consuming Oriental radish.
• People with gallstones should avoid intake of Oriental radish.

Other facts

• It has a short stem and fast-growing leaves that measure about 2 feet high.
• Oriental radish has large roots with white skin or juicy and white flesh. It is also found in yellow, green, and black colors.
• Some varieties can weigh from 40 to 50 pounds.
• The plant forms white or lilac-colored flowers with both types of reproductive organs.
• Flies and bees are responsible for pollination.
• Oriental radish has a papery thin and brown seed pod known as silicle.
• Oriental radish takes about 150 days to become ready for harvest after sowing.
• It is propagated by means of seed.
• In Japanese, the word “daikon” means great root.
• Three basic types of Oriental radish are spherical, cylindrical, and oblong.
• Root has a crispy texture, mild, tangy, and slightly spicy taste.
• Oriental radish leaves are also practiced as animal fodder.
• The plant is biennial which completes its life cycle in two years.

References

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