It is believed that the Greeks and Romans used the properties of artichoke infusion to relieve gallstones, rheumatism, constipation and also diarrhea.
On this occasion, we are going to explain how to prepare an artichoke infusion to obtain all its properties and take advantage of them, simply by drinking a tasty hot cup.
The artichoke
The artichoke plant is native to the Mediterranean and can reach 2 meters in height. It stands out for its recognizable rosette of light green leaves from which the vegetable we know is later born.
In general, its cultivation is carried out in large spaces, whether on terraces, gardens or fields. This is because the plant requires quite a bit of space to be fruitful, around 1 square meter. However, it is also possible to grow it on the balcony, in a wide and deep pot. In this case, you should keep in mind that it will not yield as much.
Health properties of artichoke infusion
Ayurveda medicine uses artichoke infusion since time immemorial. Let’s discover together what are all the benefits of regularly ingesting an artichoke infusion.
relieve digestive problems
Different investigations have proven that the artichoke has digestive properties that help increase the amount of gastric juices, thus improving digestion. On the other hand, it also acts against reflux and heartburn, as well as against abdominal pain and distension.
If you have had a feast at home or simply something has made you sick, do not hesitate and prepare this infusion. You’ll feel better.
Fight constipation and diarrhea
Although its mechanism of action has not been determined in scientific studies, many people maintain that artichoke infusion allows to stop diarrhea and, on the other hand, lighten the accumulation of feces, improving conditions as annoying as constipation.
It is believed that this could be due to its healthy fiber content, as well as its probiotic content. This combination would act on the intestinal flora, improving the presence of beneficial bacteria and thus combating imbalances.
In fact, research found that consuming artichoke improves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Has your doctor warned you that you have very high cholesterol? So pay attention: researchers have concluded that artichoke extract acts on cholesterol, reducing its levels. In other words, drinking this infusion would allow cholesterol levels to be controlled. Let us also remember that high cholesterol increases the risk of other diseases such as heart attack.
In fact, one of the studies has shown that people who regularly took artichoke extract for six weeks managed to lower their bad cholesterol levels in their blood on average by 20%. Check with your doctors about it.
Diuretic effect
The artichoke is famous for its diuretic effect. It is not in vain that it has been used for years to combat fluid retention and also to promote the reduction of abdominal inflammation.
How to prepare artichoke infusion
In addition to benefiting from its properties, preparing it will give you the opportunity to take advantage of the entire plant because the infusion is prepared with the leaves of the plant.
For this reason, when you buy artichoke, look for those packages that include the vegetable and its leaves. In this way, you can prepare a good plate of artichokes for dinner and a healthy infusion for your day to day. Remember that after preparation, it is advisable to keep the infusion in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 20 g of artichoke leaves.
- 1 cup of water.
Elaboration
- Wash the artichoke leaves well.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- When it breaks the boil, add the leaves and let them cook for 3 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let infuse another 3 minutes.
- Strain and drink.
Have we surprised you with the health properties of the artichoke? Prepare the infusion and, by the way, taste a new recipe with this vegetable. On the internet, you will find a lot of options.