Wasabi, the bright green condiment often served with sushi, is known for its intense spiciness. But did you know that wasabi also has some surprising effects on your body? From boosting your immune system to reducing inflammation, wasabi has some powerful benefits that you may not have realized. In this article, we’ll explore what does wasabi do to your body, its health benefits, and some precautions you should take while consuming it.
What is Wasabi?
Wasabi, also known as Japanese horseradish, is a plant that belongs to the Brassicaceae family. It is a native plant of Japan, and it grows in cool, shady areas close to running water. The root of the plant is grated to produce a bright green paste that is used as a condiment.
What Does Wasabi Do to Your Body?
Boosts Your Immune System
Wasabi contains compounds called isothiocyanates, which have been shown to have antimicrobial properties. This means that they can help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses in your body, thereby boosting your immune system.
Reduces Inflammation
Studies have shown that the isothiocyanates in wasabi may also have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of your immune system to infection or injury, but chronic inflammation can lead to diseases such as arthritis and heart disease. By reducing inflammation, wasabi may help to prevent these diseases.
Improves Digestion
Wasabi may also have benefits for your digestive system. It contains enzymes that can help to break down food and improve your body’s absorption of nutrients. Additionally, wasabi may help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your gut, which can improve your overall digestive health.
Precautions for Consuming Wasabi
While wasabi has some impressive health benefits, it’s important to consume it in moderation. Here are some precautions you should take while consuming wasabi:
Wasabi Can Irritate Your Nose
If you’ve ever eaten wasabi, you’ll know that it has a strong, pungent smell. This smell can irritate your nose, causing a burning sensation or even a headache. If you’re sensitive to strong smells, you may want to avoid consuming large amounts of wasabi.
Wasabi Can Cause Digestive Issues
While wasabi can improve your digestion, it can also cause digestive issues if consumed in large amounts. Too much wasabi can irritate your stomach lining, causing nausea or vomiting. If you’re prone to digestive issues, it’s best to consume wasabi in moderation.
FAQs
Can Wasabi Help to Prevent Cancer?
There is some evidence to suggest that the isothiocyanates in wasabi may have anti-cancer properties. However, more research is needed to confirm this.
Is Wasabi Good for Your Skin?
Some studies have suggested that the compounds in wasabi may have benefits for your skin. Wasabi extract has been shown to have antibacterial properties and may be effective in treating acne.
How Should You Store Wasabi?
Fresh wasabi should be stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in damp paper towels or in a damp cloth. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Can You Substitute Wasabi with Horseradish?
While horseradish has a similar taste and pungency to wasabi, it doesn’t contain the same compounds that make wasabi unique. If you’re looking for the health benefits of wasabi, it’s best to stick with the real thing.
Can Wasabi Be Harmful?
While wasabi is generally safe to consume, it can cause some side effects in certain individuals. Some people may be allergic to wasabi, and consuming it can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, or difficulty breathing. Additionally, wasabi can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before consuming it if you’re taking any medications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wasabi isn’t just a condiment that adds spice to your sushi. It also has some impressive health benefits, including boosting your immune system, reducing inflammation, and improving your digestion. However, it’s important to consume wasabi in moderation and be aware of any potential side effects. If you’re looking to add some heat to your meals while also improving your health, wasabi is definitely worth a try.
