There is apparently no truth to old tales that the fiery horseradish (Cochlearia armoracia) is so named because it was once used to cure horses of colds, or because it made a good seasoning for horse meat. Horse is used as an adjective before a number of plants to indicate a large, strong or coarse kind. Other examples include the "horse cucumber," "horse mint" and "horse plum." —Robert Hendrickson, Ladybugs, Tiger Lilies & Wallflowers

If you have horseradish in your garden, it's time to think about harvesting your crop. Dig the roots carefully, cut off the foliage about an inch above the crown, and store them in a cool, dark place. Process by grating or grinding in a food processor, mixing with vinegar (¼ cup vinegar to 1 cup ground horseradish) and packing into small jars. Ground horseradish will keep in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks, or may be frozen.

Horseradish in the Medicine Cabinet
Like mustard, horseradish has long been recognized for its medicinal properties: stimulant, laxative, diuretic, and antiseptic. The juice was used to relieve coughs and colds; a syrup treated sore throats; and the root itself staved off scurvy. (Horseradish is a source of vitamin C.) It was also used as a vermifuge. William Coles [1656] observes: "Of all things given to children for worms, horseradish is not the least, for it soon killeth and expelleth them." (The worms, not the children.) The leaves were used as a rubifacient for sciatica and paralysis, and as a compress to relieve toothache.

Horseradish on the Menu
Horseradish is hailed as a spicy sauce for meats or fish. But the zippy flavor makes it a natural for other dishes, as well. Try adding a spoonful of grated horseradish to cole slaw, beans, chicken salad, deviled eggs, meatballs—the possibilities are endless. Of course, it works as a dip, too—a healthy, versatile, all-round good-for-you herb.

Zippy Horseradish Dip
1 pint non-fat sour cream
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 tablespoons grated horseradish
2 teaspoons finely chopped green onion
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Combine all ingredients in mixer bowl, with mixer on slow speed. Refrigerate 1 hour. Garnish with parsley and serve with vegetables for dipping.

For more horseradish recipes than you could ever possibly imagine, check out About.com.