Red Radish

Fresh and crisp, red radish is the ultimate spring appetizer (so delicious with a knob of butter) but it’s also one of our best health allies!

Radishes are very low in calories (even if we stick to our butternut). Rich in vitamin C, B, potassium and sodium, they are yet a bowl of energy for the body!

Varieties

Radishes can go from seed to production in just over one month. While radishes used to come in only one color, red, there are many different varieties of radishes at markets now, including Icicle, which is pure white, Easter Egg, which is multicolored, and French Breakfast, which is white-tipped blushing to a deep pink at the stem.

But one of the best varieties is called Watermelon. It reverses the normal radish order of colors, with a creamy white peel covering an interior that is a pink so hot it is nearly purple. The flavor is just as compelling, a juicy crisp mixture of heat and sweet.

Radish varieties differ in how pungent they are — Icicle and French Breakfast tend to be particularly sweet and mild. But also the same radish variety can differ depending on growing conditions — irrigation tends to cool them, sulfurous soils tend to heat them. If you’re sensitive, taste before you buy.

Buying tips

Check the tops first; they should be bright green and not at all wilted. The roots should be brightly colored and free from cracks and nicks. Give them a squeeze to make sure there’s no hollow or soft center.

Storage

Store radishes in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, removing the tops if you’re not going to use them right away.

Antioxidant

Like most fruits and vegetables, radishes are rich in antioxidants and fibre that protect the body. They would prevent cardiovascular disease, other age-related diseases and certain cancers, including the colon, kidney and stomach.

Against fever

Radishes lower the temperature of the body and eliminate toxins, so they relieve fever!

Detox

Because it evolves deep underground, radish is full of minerals and trace elements. Its composition is thus 90% water. So in addition to being good for the line, its consumption facilitates the elimination of toxins. 

Against cold

Rich in sulfur, potassium, calcium and magnesium, radishes act against infections of the nose, throat, trachea and lungs. They disinfect and protect the body.

Against urinary disorders

Radishes increase urine production. Made of water and detox food, they cleanse the kidneys and the urinary system. Radishes, therefore, adapted to accompany the treatment of cystitis and various urinary disorders.

Good for the skin

Rich in vitamin C and B, radishes are real beauty assets. They help reduce redness and help the skin maintain stable levels of hydration. It is therefore ideal for all types of skin!