Artichoke Leaf…the Multitasking Healer

The Artichoke is one of the oldest known cultivated vegetables and has been proven to aid everything from diabetes to hangover relief.. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans used Artichokes as a digestive aid, but the coveted plant was only available to the wealthy. And it is one of the few herbal remedies that has passed the gauntlet, thorough clinical trials and experiments and yielded favorable results.

Artichoke extracts are said to be helpful for kidney and liver insufficiency, post-operative anemia. Artichoke liquid extract is known to positively help gout and improve gall secretion levels. It can slightly lower blood sugar, improve the appetite and digestion and is a natural diuretic that can aid weight loss. And it may help some migraine conditions, especially those that are caused by toxins in the blood.

One of the most attractive benefits, for many, is the ability of Artichoke extract to aid weight loss. The Artichoke leaf has been shown to improve liver function and help lower cholesterol levels, and to prevent heart disease and diminish the risk of arteriosclerosis. It has been used traditionally in alternative medicine for treating dyspepsia, indigestion, flatulence, nausea, as well as, gallbladder ailments, including jaundice and hepatitis.

Artichoke leaf has been shown to be a natural remedy that may improve various digestive health disorders. Traditional use, as well as recent clinical studies have shown the many benefits of the Artichoke Leaf extract including, lipid-lowering, antioxidant, as well as aiding dyspepsia and abdominal pain where the stomach, gallbladder, liver and pancreas are primarily affected. Artichoke leaf tinctures are also believed to be an effective way to reduce the discomfort and symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Studies have proven that Artichoke herbal supplement may help significantly to improve heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, bloating, flatulence, nausea, vomiting and constipation.

Through research, it has been found that Artichoke liquid extract has anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects in those with skin cancer. This is, in part, the result of antioxidants in vitamin C that protect DNA and RNA molecules from free radical damage. Severe vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy and has been linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke and cancer, as well.

The flavonoids from the artichoke have been shown to prevent LDL cholesterol oxidation, an effect that may reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis. Studies have determined that when Artichoke leaf extract was administered to otherwise healthy adults with raised cholesterol, their levels dropped an average of six percent. Artichoke leaf extract also has levels of luteolin, an antioxidant efficient at fighting free radicals and reinforcing the functions of the immune system. Additionally, the luteolin content has been shown to increase carbohydrate metabolism. This excellent source of potassium is also useful for reducing the chances of strokes.

Because it is a good source of magnesium, the extract of Artichoke provides is helpful in energy production, supports bone health and also plays a role in nerve and cardiac function. And studies are being carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of Artichoke leaf extract for diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, HIV and cancer, because of its ability to remove toxins and support the immune system.

Artichoke is frequently used to eliminate peripheral edema. According to The Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements, Artichoke extract can serve as a natural diuretic. The extract can help prevent water retention as well as, aid in kidney function. Some of the qualities attributed to Artichoke use include hypoglycemic activity that may assist in lowering blood glucose levels. It has been used, traditionally, in the Americas and Spain for treating diabetes. It is also said to be useful in cases of post-operative anemia.

Artichoke herbal extract can help prevent liver damage and detoxify the body. The liver is the most complex of the body’s organs and it is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. But when toxins build up in the liver it is unable to function adequately. Artichoke leaf extracts protect liver cells from oxidative stress and prevent liver disease. Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, PMS, skin irritation, dry mouth and sluggish digestion are all signs that a liver needs to be cleansed. Because Artichoke Leaf extract stimulates the production of bile, it helps the liver eliminate toxins. There is anecdotal evidence that it may help in recovery from a hangover because of its cleansing effect on the liver.

Artichokes are a good source of folate, (folic acid), providing as much as 15 percent of recommended adult dosage. Folate is important in the production of red blood cells and the formation of the body’s genetic material. Pregnant women need adequate folic acid to prevent birth defects and folate decreases the likelihood of premature delivery and low birth weight.

The Artichoke leaf extract helps maintain the equilibrium of essential nutrients in the body which aid with healthy looking nails, lustrous hair and glowing skin. Artichokes are a great source of magnesium and chromium, a trace mineral. The extract is a good source of vitamin C, folic acid, biotin and manganese, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin A, and potassium.

Contraindications: Artichoke leaf is well tolerated and there are no known side effects or drug interactions. Not recommended for those who are allergic to Artichoke or other members of the compositae family (daisy) family. Those who have obstruction of the bile duct (gallstones) should not take Artichoke.

Disclaimer: The information presented herein by New Way Herbs is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.