Artichoke health benefits have been known since the 16th century, when it was highly regarded as an aphrodisiac. However, it was not given much attention as a medicinal herb and did not achieve great prestige as a remedy for hepatic and biliary diseases until the mid-20th century. Because of its notable medicinal actions on the liver and the body, artichoke extracts are part of the composition of several medicines.
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- Can be used as a tea or infusion
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Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name: Cynara scolymus L.
- French: Artichaut.
- Spanish: Alcachofa.
- Environment: Common in Mediterranean countries but cultivated in warm regions worldwide.
- Description: Plant of the Compositae family, growing up to 1.5 m high, with large, growing up to 1.5 m tall, large, segmented, greyish-green leaves and violet flower heads surrounded by bracts (false leaves) with an edible base.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The leaves, stem, and root of the plant and the flower heads (artichokes).
Health Benefits
The active components of artichoke, which concentrate mainly in its leaves, are cynarine (a bitter component) and flavonic derivatives of lutein. The plant is rich in enzymes, inulin (a sugar relatively well-tolerated by diabetic people), potassium, and manganese. Although the excellent artichoke, that is to say, the flower head of the plant, also shares the aforementioned medicinal properties. The plant’s leaves, stems, and roots should be used to achieve an essential therapeutic effect. The properties of the artichoke plant are as follows:
- Choleretic (increases bile secretion) and hepatoprotective (antitoxic), artichoke is recommended for dyspepsia, biliary colic, and hepatic insufficiency. It is also highly recommended in the case of hepatitis.
- Hypolipemic: The plant decreases the level of cholesterol in the blood and other lipids, making it recommended for arteriosclerosis.
- Hypoglycemic: Artichoke is an excellent food for people with diabetes due to its inulin content. It promotes a decrease in the level of sugar in the blood.
- Diuretics, depuratives, and urea are eliminated. They are very appropriate for albuminuria and kidney insufficiency.
How to use Artichoke
- Infusion of leaves, stem, and root: 50 to 100 grams per liter of water. If possible, drink three cups daily before meals.
- Fresh juice, prepared with the leaves. Drink a glass with every meal.
- Dry extract: If the sour flavor of infusions or juice is not tolerated, the recommended dose is one or two grams daily.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the essential active compounds that contribute to health benefits?
Artichokes contain a variety of beneficial compounds, but the most significant include:
Cynarin: A compound that stimulates bile production, improving fat digestion and potentially lowering cholesterol.
Silymarin: A powerful antioxidant that may have liver-protective effects.
Chlorogenic Acid: An antioxidant with potential blood sugar management and anti-inflammatory properties.
Inulin: A prebiotic fiber that helps the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
Is there evidence that this plant helps lower cholesterol?
Some studies suggest moderate potential for artichoke extract to lower cholesterol. While more research is needed, the plant’s cynarin appears to play a role, likely by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and increasing cholesterol breakdown.
Can it improve liver health? How?
Research suggests the plant may offer liver-protective benefits. The silymarin and cynarin act as antioxidants and may help reduce liver damage from toxins and inflammation. Some studies even indicate the potential to promote liver cell regeneration.
How does the plant impact digestive health?
It supports digestion in several ways:
Fiber: The inulin nourishes healthy gut bacteria and can help alleviate constipation and diarrhea.
Bile Stimulation: Cynarin boosts bile production, which is essential for proper fat digestion.
Indigestion Relief: Some evidence suggests that the plant’s extract can ease indigestion symptoms like bloating and nausea.
Does the plant have any effect on blood pressure?
Limited but promising studies suggest the extract may have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect. This is likely due to its potassium content and potential to increase nitric oxide production, which helps relax blood vessels.
Can it help with blood sugar management?
Preliminary research indicates that artichoke hearts’ leaf extracts and fiber can potentially improve blood sugar control.
Are there any risks associated with eating or taking the plant’s extract?
Artichokes are generally very safe. Some people may experience mild gas or bloating, especially those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), due to the inulin content. In rare cases, people may have allergies to artichokes.
Can I get enough of these beneficial artichoke compounds from my diet?
While whole artichokes provide valuable nutrients and fiber, compounds like cynarin and silymarin are higher in concentrated artichoke supplements.
How many artichokes do I need for health benefits?
There’s no standardized recommended dosage. Studies suggest the following potential benefits:
Fresh artichokes: Consuming one or two a few times per week.
Artichoke leaf extract: Dosage typically ranges from 300-650mg daily.
Should I talk to my doctor before taking artichoke extract?
It’s always wise to consult your doctor before starting new supplements, particularly if you have existing health conditions or are on medication.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 387. Print. [artichoke health benefits]
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34890050/
- Cynarin: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12675767/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34020793/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12675767/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31276793/
Last update on 2024-04-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API