Cynara grows easily in the warmer Mediterranean climate. It is often found as part of the diet of those living in these countries and considered to be a luxury food. Like Milk Thistle, the plant belongs to the daisy family. It grows to a height of about two metres, producing large violet flowers.
Artichokes have a bitter taste due to the presence of cynaropicrin, which is found only in the green parts of the plant.
How it works:
Apart from cynaropicrin which stimulates liver function through its bitterness, artichokes contain another valuable substance known as cynarin. This has very specific properties, protecting and enhancing liver function in a way similar to silymarin which is found in Milk Thistle.
Artichokes also contain a group of compounds known as phenolic acids which have the ability to reduce blood cholesterol and lipid levels through their action on the liver.
