The wasabi is considered to have originated from North China, Japan, the far east of Russia, and Korea. Thailand is now among the many countries that are growing wasabi. Its health benefits are unmatched as it’s naturally antiparasitic. Some restaurants in Bangkok are serving pickled wasabi giving customers the Thai-Japanese touch. Wasabi is a great condiment for sushi but also has superpowers when it comes to your gut, skin, and mouth. Here are the amazing health benefits of pickled wasabi.
Assist in cholesterol control
Pickled wasabi will keep your cholesterol in check because it’s anti-hypercholesterolemic. Hence, diseases like atherosclerosis and stroke will be controlled if you eat wasabi regularly.
Prevents hypertension
Wasabi has high potassium content that is important to regulate blood flow and blood pressure. Also, wasabi is low in sodium, therefore, it’s great for increasing blood flow, protecting one from hypertension, and relaxing blood vessels.
Treats arthritis
Consuming wasabi is a natural way to treat inflammatory conditions as it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory compounds block prostaglandin, the inflammation and pain triggering neurotransmitter, therefore, preventing platelet aggregation.
Prevents cavities
The isothiocyanate in wasabi inhibits the growth of Streptococcus mutans, therefore, preventing tooth decay. The isothiocyanate interferes with sugar-dependent adherence of the teeth bacterium hence, protecting from cavities or decay. Therefore, smile the next time you are having sushi!
Great for the circulatory system
The 6-MSITC inhibits blood clot formation, therefore, reducing the risk of stroke and cardiac arrest. Circulatory effects are beneficial for keeping the skin clear and soft. To maintain cardiac health, include wasabi in your diet.
Detoxifies body
Wasabi is a natural detoxifier that takes care of the carcinogens and toxins that cause molecular damages. Sometimes, toxin accumulation goes beyond your liver’s detoxifying capacity, therefore, including wasabi in your diet will effectively expel toxins from your digestive system and liver tissues keeping you healthy.
Moreover, some type of acnes are caused by carcinogens and toxins as well. Based on information at the PimpleCenter and Bumrungrad Hospital, these type of acne can can be infected and cause a skin damage, which is difficult to heal.
Fights allergies and colds
The wasabi leaves and stems are loaded with other antioxidants and vitamin C that boosts the immune system. Wasabi contains sinigrin, an antibiotic that is anti-cancerous and is responsible for reducing inflammation, clearing congestion, stimulating the immune system, and thinning out mucus.
Tackles respiratory disorders
Thanks to the gaseous allyl isothiocyanate present in wasabi, it can disinfect and decongest your respiratory tract. The anti-inflammatory properties present in isothiocyanate can fight asthma and prohibit infections.
Anti-aging benefits
Wasabi is accredited to 6-methylthiohexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC), which keeps you young as the sulfinyl compound present helps the body lower reactive oxygen. Reactive oxygen is known for weakening the body. The 6-MSITC improves reflexes and circulation and prevents pollen allergies.
It’s an antiparasitic
The isothiocyanates (ITCs) are a natural anti-parasitic and are present in wasabi. Anisakis parasites present in squid, cod, salmon, and other seafood when eaten partially cooked or raw may cause bowel obstruction, painful gastrointestinal symptoms, and anaphylaxis. Wasabi is loaded with ITCs, therefore, effective against the Anisakis parasites, hence, enjoy raw fish recipes in wasabi.
Prevents cancer development
The wasabi root has anti-cancerous properties that are attributed to 6-MSITC. This induces apoptosis in stomach cancer cells or cell death and monoblastic leukemia cells. The prime reason for cancer development is free radicals, therefore, the 6-MSITC is effective for flushing them out.
Maintains a healthy digestive system
Wasabi is high in fiber and regulates bowel movements, helps remove toxins, and reduces constipation symptoms. It also promotes bile production that boosts the gallbladder and liver functioning.
Promotes hair health
Vitamin C is one of the most effective nutrients to grow and strengthen hair and it’s present in wasabi. At least 60.56% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C is in the wasabi, therefore, include it in your regular diet.
Helps to heal wounds faster
Copper present in wasabi has immense anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory property that helps to heal wounds rapidly. Copper also aids in cells production and supports your immune system. The healing properties are both externally and internally, especially in the stomach.
Conclusion
Wasabi has numerous health benefits, however, consuming too much may cause diarrhea and acid reflux. The wasabi is also an antidote for food poisoning thus its popularity in Thailand and other countries. When you visit Thailand, have a taste of the sushi and include pickled wasabi, and enjoy the variety the country has to offer.
