Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

(Cynara scolymus L) - a composite family (asteraceae (compositae)). The parts of the plant used: inflorescentiae leaves, root. Leaves contain cynaropicrin, cynarin, flavonoids, tannins. Artichoke has a choleretic and diuretic effect, regulates nitrogen and lipid metabolism, decreases cholesterol and urea in the blood. It is used for hepatism, nephatony and cardiac insufficiency, chronic and acute nephritis, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, edema of various natures. It helps with nausea, bloating, flatulence. Artichoke enhances excretion of arsenic preparations. It is used for consumption as a dietary product for patients with diabetes and obesity. Artichokes are used fresh and dried for first courses, salads, pastas with cheese, baking with asparagus. It is included into the composition of the drink Bitter Artichoke Vivasan.