Artichoke

Globe artichoke
Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus

Taste

Plant Parts Used

Therapeutic Properties

Ayurvedic Character

Cooling

Current Uses

A thistle of the most extraordinary design, the globe artichoke is prized for its tightly bound cluster of bracts, or specialized leaves, surrounding a dense “heart” that is tender and delicious when cooked. Its culinary value is well known; its medicinal value less so. The round, globe-shaped fruit grows perched atop a thick stalk that is also used in some culinary preparations.

The plants long, dark leaves contain

Used in Spirits

Precautions

Don’t confuse artichoke with Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus).

 

Many medications, paricularly those that affect the liver, high blood pressure, and diabetes, could have problematic interactions with extracts of artichoke.

Substitutions

Burdock root



Footnotes

https://www.plantmedicines.org/2024/12/artichokes-have-several-medicinal.html#toc-heading-8