Artichokes are vegetables normally used as food, especially in Mediterranean dishes. However, they may also have medical benefits. Artichokes have received a closer look from researchers, especially because of the high antioxidant content. The leaves of the artichoke are most commonly used for medicinal purposes. When the leaves are dried, they are often used to make a tea. Before using artichoke tea for health purposes, consult a physician.
Lower Cholesterol
Artichoke tea may lower levels of bad cholesterol in the blood. According to the website Nutrasanus.com, artichoke was used to lower cholesterol prior to the advent of statin drugs for this purpose. Artichoke may lower levels of LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and total serum cholesterol, while raising levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol.
Relieves Digestive Discomfort
Artichoke tea may offer relief from common digestive complaints including heartburn, nausea and vomiting. It may also normalize bowel function and relieve constipation, diarrhea and bloating. Artichoke leaves appear to affect the production of bile, which could explain why these related conditions improve.
Liver Conditions
The same mechanisms in artichoke tea that stimulate the bile system also appear to affect the liver, according to Nutrasanus.com. Artichoke tea may improve the functioning and condition of the liver, particularly when liver conditions exist. Artichoke tea may offer specific benefits for cirrhosis by helping the liver function better.
Lowering Blood Sugar
Artichoke tea may help patients with diabetes to more effectively stabilize their blood sugar, according to VS2 Health. Although this may be used as to help your existing diabetes treatment work better, you should always check with your doctor before using any supplements or changing your treatment protocol.
Member Comments