General Description

The artichoke is a large thistle-like herb. The artichoke is native to the mediterranean ares of Europe. Its leaves are green in color while the heart or core is a whitish green color. Both the heart and leaves are edible. Some people prefer the leaves and others prefer the heart. Their is no universal favorite part of the artichoke. The answer mostly depends on who you ask.

Beneficial Nutrients

Artichokes contain many beneficial nutrients. Some of those include: lutelin, cynarin, cynaropicrin, cynaroside, dicaffeoylquinic acid, scolymoside, Vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and iron.

Functions

- stimulates appetite
- increases bile sectretion
- protects liver cells
- lowers cholesterol
- protects against the negative effects of alcohol
- great fiber

Artichokes are a excellent source of fiber. The lack of fiber in most americans diets leads to indigestion and bloating. Generally laxatives and stool softeners are not needed when there is sufficient fiber in the diet. This is one of the major benefits of artichokes that most people need to consider when turning down this incredibly nutrious vegetable. 

Another great benefit of this vegetable is that it is relatively cheap in season. Artichokes can be found in local produce stores seasonally, but when they are in season you can get these things for next to nothing since most people are unaware that this delicious veggy even exists. 

Perhaps the most underrated benefit of eating artichokes is that it can drastically lower your cholestoral. This is by far the best part of these unique vegetables. Also, the claims about lowered cholesterol via artichoke consumption are way more legit than that you hear from cerials such as cheerios which only lower your cholesterol a neglible amount. 

Preperation, Uses, and Tips

Be sure to wash the artichokes before cooking them. After washing cut off the spiky tips of the leaves. Then submerge the artichokes in a large pot of water or vinegar. Bring to a boil, then cook for 25 to 30 minutes.

Also, the heart of the artichoke contains the most edible material. There is edible material in the leafs but not nearly as much as there is in the center. This is why you commonly see artichoke hearts sold in cans and packets. That is the only part of the vegetable that contains a large amount of edible material.