Artichoke

Artichoke

Latin Name: Cynara scolymus L.
Family: Asteraceae

Part used: Leaves
Energetics: Bitter, cooling
Iris: All iris types
Interactions: Please check with your Healthcare Provider.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

  • Bile duct obstruction
  • Gallstones
  • Pregnancy
  • Lactation

ACTIONS

  • Antioxidant
  • Digestive
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Anticancer
  • Antispasmodic
  • Diuretic
  • Liver tonic
  • Detoxifying.

Main Constituents

  • Fibre
  • Inulin and minerals,
  • Phenolic acids, mostly caffeoylquinic and dicaffeoylquinic acids derivatives
  • Flavonoids such luteolin and apigenin derivatives, anthocyanins and sesquiterpene lactones.

Main Uses

Digestive System: Supports liver health, Promotes regularity, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Nausea, Bloating, Gas, Indigestion, Hepatitis C
External Use: Hangovers
Oral System: Bad breath
Circulatory: Lowers blood pressure, Low cholesterol, Diabetes, Lowers blood sugar levels, High Cholesterol, High blood pressure
Nervous system: Improves cognitive abilities
Immune System: Prevents cancer
Lymphatic System: Treats oedema

More About Artichoke

The ancient Greeks and Romans valued artichoke not only as a culinary delight but also for its potential therapeutic properties. The Greek philosopher and naturalist Theophrastus documented the medicinal use of artichoke in the 4th century BCE.
Traditional Mediterranean medicine has often used artichoke as a liver tonic. It was believed to stimulate bile production, aiding in digestion and promoting overall liver health. Ancient cultures recognized the importance of a healthy liver for overall well-being.
During the Middle Ages, the knowledge of herbal remedies, including artichoke, was preserved and expanded upon. In the Renaissance era (14th to 17th centuries), interest in botanical medicine and the revival of classical knowledge further contributed to the exploration of artichoke's medicinal properties.
The use of artichoke in traditional medicine continued, and its reputation as a digestive aid and liver tonic persisted. With the spread of knowledge and cultural exchange, artichoke's therapeutic uses found their way into various regional healing traditions.
In the 20th century, scientific research began to explore the potential health benefits of artichoke. Studies focused on its impact on cholesterol levels, liver function, and digestive health. This research led to the identification of bioactive compounds, such as cynarin and chlorogenic acid, which are believed to contribute to artichoke's therapeutic effects.

Recipes:

Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Garlic Aioli

Ingredients:

  • Fresh artichokes (2-4, depending on size)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for garnish

For the Aioli:

  • 236g of mayonnaise (can use a healthier alternative like Greek yoghurt)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  • Trim the tough outer leaves from the artichokes and cut them in half lengthwise.
  • Brush the artichokes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • Grill the artichokes until tender and charred, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the aioli ingredients.
  • Serve the grilled artichokes with lemon wedges and the lemon garlic aioli for dipping.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad with Artichokes

Ingredients:

  • 236g of quinoa, cooked and cooled
  • 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 236g of cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 236g of Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 236g of feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 37g of red onion, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Dressing:

  • 54ml of extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, artichoke hearts, and red onion.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
  • Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss until well combined.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

References

Liver Tonic

Pharmacological Studies of Artichoke Leaf Extract and Their Health Benefits
Both experimental and clinical effects have been verified through extensive biomedical herbal remedy research. Specifically, antioxidant, choleretic, hepatoprotective, bile-enhancing and lipid-lowering effects have been demonstrated, which corresponded with its historical use. Ongoing research seems to indicate that artichoke indeed have medicinal qualities. Most significant appears to be its beneficial effect on the liver. In animal studies, liquid extracts of the roots and leaves of artichoke have demonstrated an ability to protect the liver, with possibly even to help liver cells regenerate.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26310198/

Lowering blood pressure

Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Artichoke supplementation may potentially lead to SBP and DBP reduction in hypertensive patients. In addition, artichoke supplementation for 12 weeks may significantly improve DBP.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33465383/

Lipid lowering

The effect of artichoke on lipid profile: A review of possible mechanisms of action
Evidence suggests that decreases of 8-49 mg/dL for LDL concentration, 12-55 mg/dL for total cholesterol, and 11-51 mg/dL for triglycerides, can be attributed to 2 to 3 g/d of ALE, in which its components luteolin and chlorogenic acid may play a key role. On the other hand, the effects of cooked artichoke hearts can be attributed mainly to its soluble fibres, particularly inulin.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30308247/

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