Artichoke is an edible, herbaceous perennial plant that is scientifically termed as Cynara scolymus, waving from the family Asteraceae. The plant can attain a height of 4 to 6 ft. Artichoke is further characterized by glaucus green leaves that are approximately 30inches long and quite deeply lobed. Its flowers are purple-colored that sprout out from the edible fleshy bud.
Artichoke is considered to be originated from Ethiopia. It has a rich history with ancient Egyptians and Romans, where it was highly prized because of its purported medicinal benefits. Artichoke leaves and buds are utilized to ameliorate a bad lipid profile. It is also used as an adjunct therapy to support asthma, urticarial, bile stones (by acting as potent cholagogue), eczema, various liver disorders, stomach ache, and pyrexia (fever).
Apart from the medicinal services, the tender bud and leaves of artichoke can be incorporated into cooking recipes to either steam them or make a pickle. Artichoke also tastes divine when it is added to the vegetable soup.
Artichoke has biologically active constituents that are held responsible for its pharmacological actions, including cynarin, apigenin, and luteolin. Before adding artichoke leaf to your diet, it is better to have word with physician/pharmacist as it can cause flatulence and diarrhea in people who are allergic to the plants of the Asteraceae family.