One of the most remarkable advantages of artichoke is that it has the ability to purify the liver and blood. This is due to the fact that the artichoke contains two phytonutrients – cinarin and silymarin. Cinarin is an antioxidant compound that promotes liver function, and silymarin is a flavonoid that helps protect liver cells and cell membranes. Both compounds protect the liver against damage and stimulate the growth of new tissues and cells.
Several studies have shown the positive effects of artichoke consumption. In one of these, conducted on 90 people who had a fatty liver disease, it was found that regular consumption of artichokes for two months resulted in an improvement in liver function .
Artichoke is beneficial for the liver and because it protects it from liver toxicity and the harmful effects of alcohol, processed foods and other pollutants. It is an integral part of the liver detoxification plan. It should be noted, however, that the consumption of artichokes does not mean that you can consume excess alcohol or eat very harmful food and not affect the liver.
Along with detoxification of the liver, artichokes can also be useful for detoxification of the urinary and gall bladder . This is due to the natural diuretic properties of artichokes. It is also effective in lowering the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood.
In addition to cinarin and silymarin, artichoke contains beta-carotene, quercetin, lutein, rutin, cinnarin and gallic acid. This combination helps fight inflammation and prevents chronic diseases and even cancer. Artichoke is also rich in calcium, fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B, C, K, thiamin , niacin, riboflavin and folic acid.
It is important to note that before any detoxification regimen is initiated , a specialist should be consulted because if there is any form of liver, kidney or gallbladder disease, detoxification may worsen some of these conditions.
