Have you watched Kung Fu Panda, the animated film where Po, the panda, is discovered in a crate of red radishes? Beyond its pop culture cameo, the red radish is now gaining serious scientific attention for its health benefits.
A study co-authored by Dr Jayanthi Barasarathi from the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences (FHLS) at INTI International University, in collaboration with fellow researchers, has uncovered the impressive properties of red radish microgreens (RRMs). The results indicate that RRMs are not only rich in nutrients but also possess significant antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer benefits.
Red radishes are native to Asia and are believed to have originated in regions of China and Central Asia.
Microgreens, including red radish, are seedlings harvested shortly after germination. They may look small, but they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. What makes RRMs distinctive is their high concentration of unique bioactive molecules. These include phenolic acids, flavonoids, glucosinolates, isothiocyanates, sulforaphane, and carotenoids. Collectively, these compounds affect key biological pathways involved in health promotion and disease prevention.
By neutralising harmful free radicals, they reduce oxidative stress, a major contributor to chronic illnesses such as cancer. Beyond protection, RRMs have shown the ability to inhibit cancer cell growth, induce cancer cell death, and suppress the spread of cancer cells. Compounds like sulforaphane are particularly notable for sensitising cancer cells to treatments while regulating genes that play a role in tumour suppression.
The research also highlights applications beyond the pharmaceutical industry. RRMs can be eaten fresh in salads or incorporated into extracts for health supplements, providing a convenient way for consumers to include these compounds in their diets. Their potential does not end there. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of RRMs suggest they may also be beneficial for skincare, potentially helping with eczema and reducing the signs of ageing.
“Research highlights their potential not just as a superfood but as a versatile ingredient in future health and wellness solutions,” said Dr Jayanthi. She added that the scope may extend even further: “Beyond terrestrial applications, microgreens hold significant promise for current and future space missions.” With rapid growth cycles, high nutrient content, and minimal resource requirements, RRMs could help protect astronaut health against oxidative stress and immune challenges in space.
Although the evidence is encouraging, the researchers emphasise that further research is necessary. Specifically, human clinical trials are required to assess the bioavailability and long-term effects of RRMs. Simultaneously, efforts are being made to optimise cultivation and processing techniques to enhance the concentration and effectiveness of therapeutic compounds.
According to Dr. Jayanthi Barasarathi from INTI International University’s Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, the research highlights red radishes not only as a superfood but also as a versatile ingredient in future health and wellness solutions.
Achieving this requires careful consideration of external factors such as the planting medium, fertiliser, water, climate, and harvest timing, as well as internal factors like seed variety and genetics. “Both external factors, such as planting medium, fertiliser use, water availability, climate, and harvest timing, and internal factors, such as seed variety and genetics, influence the nutritional content of RRMs and other microgreens,” explained Dr Jayanthi.
With their nutrient-rich profile and versatility, red radish microgreens offer more than just culinary appeal. They embody a natural and promising approach to combating inflammation and aiding cancer treatment, while also opening up possibilities in cosmetics and even space missions