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Artichoke or Cynara or globe
artichoke (Hathichak in Hindi) is an European plant (Cynara scolymus) of the daisy family cultivated
for its large thistle like flower heads. There are numerous health benefits of
Artichoke and is one of the most clinically tested herbs for its amazing benefits.
Artichokes leaves contain most of the plant's powerful health benefits. Here is
a list of 10 most important benefits that we can get from this miraculous
plant.
1)
High in
Antioxidants: like other green plants artichoke is also known for its antioxidants
properties. A study done by the USDA found that artichokes have more
antioxidants than any other vegetable and they ranked seventh in a study of the
antioxidant levels of 1,000 different foods. Some of the powerful antioxidants
in artichokes are quercertin, rutin, anthocyanins, cynarin, luteolin, and
silymarin.
2)
Cancer
Prevention and Treatment: Artichoke helps to prevent some kinds of cancers
like prostate cancer, leukemia, and breast cancer. Specific kind of
antioxidants in the artichoke includes quercetin and a flavonoids called rutin,
both of which are helpful in fighting off illness. Study shows that artichoke
leaf extract induce apoptosis (cell death) and reduce cell proliferation in
many different forms of cancer. An Italian study found that a diet rich in the flavonoids
present in artichokes reduces the risk of breast cancer.
3)
Increased Bile
Flow: Artichoke preparations a polyphenol antioxidant called cynarin which
may relieve digestive complaints through increases in the formation and flow of
bile. The increased flow of bile is called choleresis. Bile is excreted from
the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released into the intestine. Bile
acids form a complex with dietary fats in the intestine and thereby assist in
their digestion and absorption.
4)
Good for the
Liver: The artichoke plant has been known as a liver tonic for centuries. Artichokes
have long been used in folk and alternative medicine as a treatment for liver
ailments and the scientific studies are now proving them to be correct. Its
natural properties like the antioxidant cynarin and another antioxidant,
silymarin, artichokes are very beneficial to the liver. Studies have found they
may even regenerate liver tissue help the body get rid of toxins and assist the
liver in its vital operations.
5)
Better Digestion:
As Artichoke stimulates the gall bladder and is natural diuretic, thus aid in
digestion and provide relief. Many studies have proved its effectiveness in
curing irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS.
6)
Reduce after
effects of Alcohol: Thanks to Its positive effects on the liver, many
people has benefited by artichokes for
reducing side effects of alcohol like hangover,
unsettled stomach, headaches etc.
7)
Heart tonic and
Cholesterol Reducer: The cyanic properties in the artichoke help the body
to excrete bad cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase. They raise good
cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
8)
High in Fiber:
One large artichoke contains approx 1/4 of the daily recommended intake of
fiber.
9) Good for
Diabetes: Scientific evidence shows that the artichoke can help balance
blood glucose levels and help deal with diabetes.
10) High in potassium: Artichokes have a
good deal of potassium, a mineral that’s generally good for you. Potassium
helps deal with excess sodium, and for those who are taking some kinds of
anti-hypertensive drugs, foods like artichokes can be a way to hedge against a
potential potassium deficiency.
Side Effects: there are no known
side effects of Artichoke, but its always advisable to consult a naturopath
before using it.
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