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Artichoke
By Artichoke
Artichoke
Eliminate Possible Formation Of Cholesterol
The word Artichoke is derived from the Arabic arDy shuky, meaning literally my
floor has thorns. Artichoke is a perennial, thistle-like plant, originating in
southern Europe around the Mediterranean. Artichoke grows to 1.5-2 m tall, with
arching, deeply lobed, silvery glaucous-green leaves 50-80 cm long. The flowers
develop in a large head from an edible bud about 8-15 cm diameter with numerous
triangular scales; the individual florets are purple.
The peak season for Artichoke harvesting is the spring, but they continue to be
harvested throughout the summer, with another peak period in mid autumn.
Artichokes are perennials, and produce the edible flower only during the second
and subsequent year. It requires good soil, regular watering and feeding plus
frost protection in winter. Rooted suckers can be planted each year so that
mature specimens can be disposed of after a few years, as each individual plant
only lives a few years.
Artichoke Benefits:
Since the 20th century, uses Artichoke has been used traditionally as food and
as a medicinal herb.
Artichoke also has powerful antioxidant activity.
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.
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.
Artichoke is dry extract could be safely recommended to patients with
hyperlipoproteinemia and for possible prevention of vascular disease.
Artichoke has a similar effect to some of the pharmaceutical cholesterol
lowering drugs.
Artichoke extracts eliminate the possible formation of Cholesterol by inhibiting
the enzyme responsible for its formation.
Artichokes contain phenolic compounds that are thought to have protective
effects on cells that are exposed to oxidative stress.
Artichoke also been used to restore the function of a liver that is damaged.
Artichoke extract has also been successfully used in the treatment of Irritable
Bowel syndrome.
Artichoke Uses:
Large artichokes can be filled with seafood or bread crumb stuffings, whole
bottoms can be stuffed and baked or garnished with poached eggs. When sliced and
sautéed, the bottoms can be used as a garnish for pasta, pizza, or omelets.
Small artichokes can be fried whole, pickled, steamed and marinated for a salad
garnish. Steamed and halved, also artichokes can be added to braised chicken,
veal, lamb, or seafood dishes.
Hot artichokes are often accompanied by melted butter; lukewarm or chilled
artichokes by a mayonnaise or vinaigrette.
Artichoke Dosage:
(250 to 750mg, daily) Dosage Range.
(250mg, twice daily) Common Dosage.
(320mg/capsule) Dosage of 1 - 2 capsules 2 - 3 times a day for 6 weeks.
Artichoke Cautions:
Some may be allergic, consult doctor if pregnant or nursing, not to be used by
children under 2 without doctor recommendation, do not use if bile duct
obstruction is present.
About the Author
Artichoke
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