Artichoke plants (Cynara cardunculus) are large herbs that originate from Ethiopia and are now widely being cultivated in southern regions of Europe and other continents. Artichoke was one of the most valuable and expensive foods in Ancient Greece and the Roman Empire. In the 17th century European explorers brought artichoke plant to the U.S., and since then it became quite a popular and loved food for many American families. The green huge buds of artichoke plant, which are used for cooking, are considered to be among the most nutrient-rich veggies on earth.
100 g of artichokes have 53 kcal. This amount contains also 12 g of carbohydrates, 8.8 g of sugar, 3 g proteins, 2.4 g of dietary fiber, 1.1 g of niacin, 300 mg of potassium, 60 mg of sodium, 42 mg of magnesium, as well as other useful elements and nutrients, including zinc, iron, chromium, calcium, copper, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamins C and B group, cynaropicrin, lutelin, folate, dicaffeoylquinic acids, and a number of others. Artichoke extract is now one of the most demanded herbal remedies, which is diluted from the leaves of artichoke plant and contains great amounts of flavonoids and caffeolyquinic acids.
Artichoke is a healthy dietary food, which is very rich in natural dietary fiber and can be easily digested. Artichokes are recommended even to those people who suffer from type 2 diabetes. Artichoke health benefits include positive effects linked to a regular consumption of artichoke products on the function of our cardio-vascular system, as artichoke plant is a great source of potassium and sodium salts. These salts have very powerful basic nature, that is why artichoke extract or supplements are recommended to those people, who suffer from increased acidity. The researches showed that artichokes have excellent diuretic and cholagogue properties.
Active ingredients of artichoke products (in particular, caffeoylquinic acids) can assist in treating various problems with liver and alleviating the ailments of kidneys. Artichoke extract was also found effective for lowering blood cholesterol, improving digestion and strengthening the function of our immunity. Studies showed that artichoke products can help in improving appetite, normalizing digestion and relieving such problems as dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and others. In addition, the property of preventing atherosclerosis and migraine conditions is also among the most important artichoke health benefits.
Regular consumption of artichokes or artichoke extracts is linked to healthier skin and improved skin luminosity. That is why this herbal remedy is used as an element of various creams, lotions, cosmetic masks and other beauty products. Finally, artichoke plant products are valued for high content of anti-oxidants. Nowadays, artichokes can be found in our markets year round, but the best season for buying and cooking fresh artichokes is during the spring months. Add this healthy delicious food to your daily diet, and you will have an opportunity to enjoy all the above mentioned artichoke health benefits, look always younger, and be always active and strong.
Author Info: Hi! My name is Carla and I am a 5th year medical student at HYMS. I am interested in alternative medicine and I have done months researching the topic of herbal medicine. Besides, I like interviewing people and learning more about their experiences with one or another type of herbal treatments. I am willing to contribute to this site with my knowledge, and I would be happy to help you out to the best of my ability with any specific questions or problems related to alternative medicine.
