Daikon radishes are popularly used in Asian and Indian cooking and known for their potent medicinal properties.It’s cultivated around the world as a food for people and livestock, as well as for its seed oil, which is used in the cosmetic industry.Winter radishes are sown in mid to late summer and harvested during cooler weather (4).This daikon variety has pale, greenish skin, yet reveals a bright pink flesh when cut open.This daikon variety has pale, greenish skin, yet reveals a bright pink flesh when cut open.Daikon is also rich in folate, a B vitamin that’s involved in cellular growth, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis ( 7 ).Foods rich in folate are particularly important during pregnancy, as this nutrient plays an integral role in the growth and development of the baby ( 8 ).One test-tube study found that daikon extract contained the polyphenol antioxidants ferulic acid and quercetin, both of which have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immune-boosting properties ( 9 , 10 , 11 ).Additionally, cruciferous vegetables like daikon offer biologically active compounds called glucosinolates, which break down to form isothiocyanates.Plus, population studies indicate that eating a lot of cruciferous vegetables like radishes may protect against certain cancers, including of the colon and lungs ( 15 , 16 ).What’s more, daikon is high in fiber, a nutrient that may decrease hunger levels by slowing digestion and increasing fullness, which may help boost weight loss ( 18 ).In fact, cruciferous vegetable intake has been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions ( 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 ).Additionally, some population studies indicate that eating more cruciferous vegetables like daikon may help you live a longer, healthier life ( 24 ).Summary Daikon is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable that contains plant compounds that may help protect against conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.Steam daikon and top it with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for a low-calorie side dish.Serve raw, sliced daikon alongside other veggies with a tasty dip for a healthy appetizer.Note that all parts of the daikon plant can be eaten, including the leafy green tops, which can be added to sautés and soups.Though tiny, they have powerful medicinal properties and have exhibited antioxidant and anticancer effects in test-tube studies ( 25 , 26 ).Summary Daikon can be used in many ways and makes an excellent addition to salads, soups, and curries