Also known as: Cynara scolymus, the globe artichoke is a thistle vegetable of Mediterranean origin and should not be confused with the Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) which is the tuber of a species of sunflower native to eastern North America.
Bioflavonoids found in artichokes have an antibacterial effect, stimulate bile production, improve circulation and can assist with fighting allergies, asthma and herpes.
Cholesterol reduction
The globe artichoke contains the bitter components, cynarin and sesquiterpene-lactones which inhibit cholesterol synthesis and increase its excretion in the bile. This results in cholesterol reduction in the blood which can protect against atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
Liver disorders
The flavonoids in the globe artichoke, such as silymarin, also found in milk thistle, can help to cleanse and protect the liver against disorders such as alcoholic liver disease or hepatitis.
Neurological disorders
The globe artichoke is also a good source of vitamin K which helps promote bone formation. Adequate vitamin K levels in the diet also help to limit neuronal damage in the brain; so are useful in the treatment of individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders.
Skin cancer
The caffeic acid, ferulic acid and silymarin in globe artichokes help to protect the body from harmful free-radical agents which can cause cancer and its has been proven to especially protect against skin cancer.
Spina bifida
Because it is also a rich source of vitamin B9 (folic acid) which acts as a co-factor for enzymes involved in the synthesis of DNA, regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin B9 such as the globe artichoke, during the pre-conception period and early pregnancy, prevent neural tube defects (spin a bifida) in the newborn baby.
Significant nutrients in the globe artichoke
NOTE: The globe artichoke can easily be grown in the garden and makes a large structurally attractive plant which bees and butterflies are attracted to.
Related subjects
- A-Z of herbs and spices
- A-Z of natural foods
- A-Z of nutrients
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Atherosclerosis
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Herpes
- High cholesterol
- Liver disorders
- Pregnancy disorders
- Skin disorders
- Strokes