Anyone who’s ever eaten horseradish knows that it helps with sinus issues. It really clears your nose cavity and sinus areas, and can actually give you this burning sensation if the root is too spicy or if you eat too much at once. Nonetheless, it clears us up. Lately we’ve had a tough time with this Spring’s allergy season, so we’ve been eating fresh horseradish, yes fresh, to help clear up our sinus pressures along with our beloved Netty Pot. You can find it at most grocery stores or at the Farmers Market.

So if you suffer like we do and are also prone to developing sinus infections, try a small piece of horseradish the minute you feel stuffy or feel a cold coming on to prevent mucus from accumulating in your sinus cavities. Moms and herbalists have recommended horseradish for common colds, influenza, and lung congestion since I can remember. My mom used to grate fresh horseradish from our garden and put it on our chests to help with the breathing. It really does work and is an amazing natural alternative to nasal decongestants.

It is also excellent for helping you purge that excess water that you might build up due to high sodium intake. This little root is super high in our favorite vitamin C, packing an average of 79.31mg  per 100g of raw horseradish, which is in the family of some of the highest concentrations. It also boasts very high amounts of potassium, sulfur and is considered a good source for calcium.