Artichoke is a thistle plant which is also known as Cynara cardunculus scientifically. Artichoke plants originate from Southern Europe and mainly from the Mediterranean region. Although, artichoke is from Southern Europe, it is widely cultivated in USA now. Artichoke history back dates up to the 9th century and the Dutch introduced Artichokes to England in 16th century. Artichoke was brought to USA in the 19th century by Spanish and French Immigrants.

Artichoke has 8 grams of Dietary Fiber nutrition for Nutritional value of 100 grams or 3.5 oz servings. The edible portion of the buds consists primarily of the fleshy lower portions known as the “heart”. The mass of immature florets in the center of the bud is called the “choke”. The choke is inedible in older flowers. 

Medicinal and Health Benefits of Artichoke

– Artichoke is an excellent source of dietary fiber, magnesium, and the trace mineral chromium.
– They are a good source of folic acid, biotin, and the trace mineral manganese.
– They are a good source of niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin A, and potassium.
– Artichoke increases the excretion of cholesterol and decrease the manufacture of cholesterol in the liver.
– Artichoke has been shown to stabilize blood sugar levels in diabetes too.