Wasabi; the miracle food that works wonders?

The turn of the millennium Budweiser commercial series made fun of the pronunciation of the word "wasabi" and its similarity to "wassup." But soon we may be singing the praises of this unique and mostly misunderstood plant, as research reveals its significant health benefits.

Wasabi is familiar to consumers of Japanese cuisine, although outside of Japan, most people have never actually tasted real wasabi. Wasabi is made from the rhizome of the wasabia japonica plant, which is native to Japan. It is extremely difficult to grow, requiring specific conditions and a steady flow of very clean water. Most "wasabi" consumed is merely horseradish and mustard with green food coloring. This is because in addition to being rare and expensive, wasabi is highly perishable. The harsh burning sensation we associate with wasabi is the result of the horseradish and mustard. Real wasabi has a more delicate and refined flavor. In wasabi-growing areas, wasabi is included in things like soft-serve and Kit Kats, and it is not the pungent, sinus-clearing paste we try to convince our naive friends is guacamole for a sophomoric laugh when they take a big bite. Its unique taste arises from compounds like allyl isothiocyanate, which not only provides the characteristic spiciness but also contributes to the plant's antimicrobial properties.

Beyond its culinary allure, wasabi boasts potential health benefits. Studies have explored its components, such as hexaraphane, revealing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent research from Tohoku University indicates that hexaraphane, present in trace amounts in wasabi, may enhance cognitive function in older adults, particularly in working memory and episodic memory. The study enlisted 72 Japanese participants aged between 60 and 80, divided into two groups: one group consumed wasabi tablets nightly, while the other received a placebo. At the study's conclusion, cognitive tests evaluated participants' mental processing speed, attention, short-term memory, working memory, episodic memory, executive function, and visual-spatial cognitive abilities. The results revealed a significant enhancement in episodic and working memory in the group taking wasabi, compared to the placebo group.

In Japanese tradition, wasabi symbolizes purity and is often paired with raw fish to combat potential contaminants. Its vivid green hue adds visual appeal to dishes, making it not only a flavor enhancer but also a feast for the eyes. Whether enjoyed in traditional sushi settings or creatively incorporated into various cuisines, wasabi remains an emblematic and versatile ingredient that continues to captivate palates worldwide. It may also be a valuable tool to help fight the cognitive decline associated with aging.

Text of study referenced in article: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/21/4608

Nouchi R, Kawata NYS, Saito T, Nouchi H, Kawashima R. Benefits of Wasabi Supplements with 6-MSITC (6-Methylsulfinyl Hexyl Isothiocyanate) on Memory Functioning in Healthy Adults Aged 60 Years and Older: Evidence from a Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023; 15(21):4608. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15214608