Wasabi

Feb 17, 2025

Wasabi

  • Wasabi (scientific name Wasabia japonica) is a plant native to the mountain river valleys in Japan. It is commonly known as Eutrema japonicum, Japanese horseradish, Korean wasabi, and Japanese spice.

  • This supplement has no scientific uses, but traditionally is used for its analgesic, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiplatelet properties. Wasabi may also be used in cancer to induce cell apoptosis, to preserve food, treat gastric ulcers, and prevent melanoma and osteoporosis.

  • There is no stan-dard dosing recommended based on evidence and minimal reported adverse effects. Topical wasabi should be used cautiously in patients using analgesics on the skin, such as capsaicin. The most significant drug interaction is the increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulation medications.

  • Additionally, wasabi has adverse inter-actions with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and drugs metabolized by the liver. Lastly, there may be some anabolic effects of wasabi on bone metabolism, and so individuals taking SERMS***, hormonal agents, and bisphosphonates should use this supplement with caution.

  • Herbal interactions include garlic, ginseng, ginkgo, and any other herb known to increase the risk of bleeding.

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