Artichoke

Also Known As: Globe Artichoke and Jerusalem Artichoke

Botanical Name: Cynara Cardunculus L.

Family Name: Asteraceae

Native To: Mediterranean, Southern Europe, and Northern Africa

Parts To Use: Leaf, Stem, and Root

How It’s Used: Lowers cholesterol, protects the liver, and aids in digestion due to the two major phytonutrients: Cynarin and Silymarin.

Harvesting: Starts in late July or early August. Buds are harvested once they reach full size. Cut off the bud along with 3 inches of stem. Store artichoke buds in the refrigerator as soon as possible after harvesting. Store buds in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable crisper section. Artichokes may be stored for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Artichoke extract can be bought in pill, powder, and liquid form.

The artichoke is mentioned as a garden plant as early as the 8th century BC and also has records of use as a food among the ancient Greeks and Romans. Artichoke plants were taken to the United States in the 19th century: to Louisiana by French immigrants and to California by Spanish immigrants. Physicians of North America used Artichoke leaf to support healthy urine flow and production and to support normal function of the digestive system and liver. In European herbal medicine it has been used to support the same functions, but also to support healthy skin, encourage a normal appetite, and to support healthy bile flow and cholesterol metabolism.

This plant grows to 4.6–6.6 ft tall, with arching, green leaves 20–32 inches long. The flowers are found in a large head from an edible bud about 3–6 inches in diameter. The edible portions of the buds consist of the fleshy lower portions and the base, known as the "heart." The mass of immature florets in the center of the bud is called the "choke" or beard. Artichoke contains the bioactive agents apigenin and luteolin. The total antioxidant capacity of artichoke flower heads is one of the highest reported for all vegetables. The majority of the cynarine found in artichoke is located in the pulp of the leaves, though dried leaves and stems of artichoke also contain it.

Good digestion is the foundation of good health. The two major phytonutrients found in artichokes are Cynarin and Silymarin. The cynarin contained in an Artichoke increases bile production, which in turn helps the body digest fats more efficiently and receive greater benefit from fat-soluble vitamins. Studies show that artichoke leaf extract can reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome as well as lower cholesterol, protect and support liver function, increase bile production and prevent gallstones. The liver makes bile acids from cholesterol and stores them in the gallbladder. By increasing the production of bile acids, artichoke extract helps the liver reduce the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Artichokes are low in fat and calories and contain essential minerals and fiber, so they are an excellent choice for traditional weight loss diets. Artichokes are also high in antioxidants, in the form of vitamin C and phytonutrients, which are thought to protect cells against the attack of free radicals. Artichoke may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before consuming.