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
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The audthor is a Health Consultant
