Artichoke

The artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is a thorn-like, strong plant of the Asteraceae family. In 2003, the artichoke was chosen as the medicinal plant of the year. Artichokes are believed to have appetite enhancing, digestive and cholesterol lowering effects. Based on different mechanisms of action a) through increased cholesterol excretion, b) increased consumption in the synthesis of bile acids and c) inhibition of cholesterol formation in liver cells, it is believed that lowering of total cholesterol by up to 12% is possible through the artichoke. In this regard, artichoke has an important role in the prevention of atherosclerosis. The bitter substance Cynarin in the artichoke stimulates the metabolism of the liver and bile. Their leaves are eaten steamed, used for juices, teas, dry extracts and tinctures. Their medicinal and dietary effect is explained by the content of flavonoids and quinic acid derivatives.