Radishes and radish leaves are an excellent source of vitamin C. Globe radishes are a very good source of the trace mineral molybdenum and a good source of folic acid and potassium. Daikons are a very good source of copper and potassium. The kaiware daikon radish sprout is a potent source of antioxidants. Radish leaves are a good source of calcium. A comprehensive breakdown of nutrients can be found in our Nutrient Database.

Preliminary studies have shown radish root to be effective in lowering cholesterol levels. A study examined the beneficial effect of the black radish juice on some free radical reactions in rats fed with a diet rich in lipids (20% sunflower oil, 2% cholesterol, 0.5% cholic acid) in normal chow. Supplementation of the lipid-rich diet with black radish juice had a beneficial effect on Hyperlipidaemia (elevated levels of lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides).

Radishes are high in potassium which is helpful in regulating blood pressure. High blood pressure is positively associated with higher sodium intake and inversely associated with potassium, calcium, and magnesium intakes. Decrease of sodium and increase of potassium, calcium, and magnesium intakes, which are characteristic of the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), has an excellent blood pressure lowering effect. Salt restriction, alcohol moderation, weight loss, exercise, and a DASH diet can achieve decreases in systolic blood pressure of approximately 10 to 15 mm Hg when applied together. Decreased intakes of sodium alone, and increased intakes of potassium, calcium, and magnesium each alone decrease high blood pressure.

Black radish root has been used in folk medicine since antiquity as a natural drug for the stimulation of bile function.

Radishes contain a variety of sulfur-based chemicals that increase the flow of bile, thus helping to maintain a healthy gallbladder and liver and improving digestion.

Radish leaf extract is reported to be beneficial gastrointestinal activities, and is known worldwide for its laxative properties.

The leaves of the radish are a well-known home remedy for jaundice, but as yet there is no research to confirm their effectiveness as a treatment for jaundice.

The radish belongs to the brassica group of vegetables, which include cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli. Numerous studies suggest that brassica vegetables are protective against cancers of the lungs and alimentary tract. Cruciferous vegetables are the dietary source of glucosinolates, organic compounds that give brassica vegetables their flavor. The chemo preventive potential of radishes is partly due to their glucosinolates content, and a study in Italy has shown the Japanese daikon to demonstrate anti-cancer activity toward three human colon carcinoma cell lines

In a study to determine the GI of various vegetables, it was concluded that radishes have a low GI.