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Artichoke
The artichoke is a large thistle-like herb. The artichoke is native to the mediterranean ares of Europe. Its leaves are green in color while the heart or core is a whitish green color. Both the heart and leaves are edible. Some people prefer the leaves and others prefer the heart.
Health Benefits of Artichoke
Artichoke has been used traditionally as food and as a medicinal herb for its
diuretic and digestive properties. Artichoke leaves are used by many in
connection with gastrointestinal complaints stemming from bile deficiency (in
the liver and gall bladder), as well as to stimulate appetite and diuresis. The
results of several clinical investigations suggested that artichoke extracts are
useful when used in connection with hepato-biliary dysfunction and digestive
complaints, such as sensation of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea, and
abdominal pain. Some researchers have even suggested that artichoke dry extract
could be safely recommended to patients with hyperlipoproteinemia and for
possible prevention of vascular disease. Artichoke also has powerful antioxidant
activity.
Suggested health benefits of artichoke
- High Cholesterol: Lowers LDL or bad cholesterol and increases HDL or
good cholesterol. Artichoke leaf has been shown to lower cholesterol. One
study showed a decrease in total cholesterol of 18.5 and LDL cholesterol by
23. It had actually gained widespread use in the 1950's and 60's before the
advent of statin drugs. It is thought to interfere with cholesterol
synthesis. A substance it contains called luteolin may play a role in it
cholesterol lowering abilities.
- Reduces triglycerides, total serum cholesterol
- Has diuretic properties - useful in kidney disease
- Increases bile flow and lover function - used in connection with
cirrhosis
- Helps abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating
- Relieves constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
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