Artichoke

Artichoke Alcachofra (Cynara Scolymus) is the Brazilian name for Globe Artichoke. Alcachofra belongs to the Milk Thistle family and grows to a height of about two meters, producing large violet-green flower heads. The flower petals and fleshy flower bottoms are eaten as a vegetable throughout the world, which has led to it's commercial cultivation in many parts of South and North America as well as Europe. Alcachofra is from a similarity in the flavor of the tuber in the Jerusalem artichoke to that of the fleshy base of the Artichoke flower, that the Jerusalem Artichoke has obtained it's name. The plant has been employed therapeutically in the treatment of elevated lipid levels, although with mixed results. For example, a study done in the late 1970's using cynarin at the 250mg to 750mg daily dose concluded that it did not alter cholesterol or triglyceride levels in patients with familial high cholesterol after 3 months of therapy. In contrast, however, a recent European study suggests that artichoke is efficacious in altering lipid values. After using a standardized artichoke extract (320mg/capsule) at a dose of 1 - 2 capsules 2 - 3 times a day for 6 weeks, total cholesterol and triglyceride values decreased by an average of 12.78% and 8.79% respectively. HDL cholesterol levels did not rise significantly. In other studies, tests have shown artichoke extract to increase liver bile flow by more than 100%. Uses of Artichoke: Artichoke was used as a food and medicine by ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. In Rome, this herb was an important item on the menu at feasts. Artichoke is remedy for: Liver dysfunction Gall bladder disorder High cholesterol More Detail For Atrichoke