- Botanical Name & Family: Raphanus sativus L., Brassicaceae (mustard family).
- Plant Description: Annual/biennial herb grown for swollen taproots (globular to cylindrical, various colors, white flesh). Leaves are lyrate, in a rosette.
- Cultivation Tips: Fast-growing, cool-season crop. Prefers full sun, light sandy loams (pH 6.5-7.0). Sow 1.2 cm deep, 2.5 cm apart. Matures in 3-4 weeks. Requires thinning and consistent moisture. Bolts in heat.
- Ayurvedic Description: Known as mulaka. Sharp, hot, bitter (sweet when cooked). Pacifies Vata and Kapha, awakens Pitta. Aids digestion, constipation, hemorrhoids. Best consumed freshly cooked, especially for Vata types, often with ghee.
Nutritional profile of seasonal vegetable (per 100g raw edible portion):
| Vegetable | Botanical Name | Calories (kcal) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Fiber (g) | Key Vitamins | Key Minerals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radish | Raphanus sativus | 19 | 3.9 | 0.8 | 0.1 | 1.9 | C (17-19 mg) | Folate, B6, K, Ca, K, Na, Fe, Mn |