ARTICHOKE | |||||||||
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Artichoke has been used traditionally as food and medicinal herb
for diuretic and digestive properties. Artichoke leaves are used by
many in connection with gastrointestinal complaints stemming from
bile deficiency (in the liver and gall bladder), as well as to
stimulate appetite and diuresis. The results of several clinical
investigations suggested that artichoke extracts are useful when
used in connection with hepato-biliary dysfunction and digestive
complaints, such as sensation of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea,
and abdominal pain. Some researchers have even suggested that
artichoke dry extract could be safely recommended to patients with
hyperlipoproteinemia and for possible prevention of vascular
disease. Artichoke also has powerful antioxidant
activity.
The German Commission E recommends 6 g of the dried herb or its equivalent per day, usually divided into 3 doses. Precautions Artichoke leaf appears to be very safe. However, individuals with gall bladder disease should use artichoke only under medical supervision. Its safety in pregnant and lactating women is unknown. People with allergies to artichoke or members of the chrysanthemum family should avoid it. |
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