Artichoke and artichoke tea have long been proven to be very good for human health

Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus) is widely grown in the highland province of Lam Dong for its edible buds. Artichoke is rich in carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals (see the box below). The medicinal properties of artichoke come from its cynarin, an active chemical that causes an increased bile flow.

Artichoke can be made into an herbal tea, which affords some of the quality of the whole vegetable. The drink acts as a diuretic and improves liver function. Artichoke tea is now produced commercially in Dalat City and in many other localities in Lam Dong Province.

This herbal tea has become more and more favorite around the world thanks to its magnificent health benefits. Although being called tea, this artichoke drink contains no caffeine. Prepared from the roots and flower buds of the artichoke, this herbal tea is tasty, refreshing and very nutritious.

Health benefits

Drinking artichoke tea regularly is highly recommended to improve the health of tissues.

Artichoke tea can help stimulate the immune system, prevent the risk of inflammation and intensify the resistance of the body against illnesses.

Artichoke drink stimulates the digestion and recovers appetite for those with digestive disorders. This herbal tea can also help relieve nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, flatulence and stomachache.

Artichoke tea can help prevent gallbladder and kidney infections because it has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substances.

Artichoke tea is very good for the liver, as it promotes the secretion of bile, boosts the discharge of the LDL (considered as bad) cholesterol and detoxifies the liver. Drinking this tea regularly can help recover the damage to the liver caused by alcoholic beverage abuse.

It is recommended to drink artichoke tea during the hepatitis treatment period to accelerate the healing of the liver. Drink the herbal tea in the postnatal period to prevent any complication for the mothers.

Artichoke tea is an efficient diuretic, thus it can accelerate urination and detoxify the body. Those with diabetes are advised to drink artichoke tea, as the drink can help lower the blood sugar. However, artichoke should not be used to replace diabetes drugs.

This herbal tea can help prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as it may decrease the LDL cholesterol but increase the HDL (considered as good) cholesterol level in the blood.

Good news for the fair sex: Artichoke tea can help reduce the accumulation of fats in the body, so it is a drink of choice for those who want to lose unexpected weights. Drinking artichoke tea regularly is also a good way to beautify the skin.

Source: SGT