Common therapeutic properties and applications of globe artichoke

The globe artichoke is a perennial plant belonging to the aster family, predominantly grown in countries surrounding the Mediterranean basin. The leading producers of this plant are Egypt, Italy, and Spain. It is also possible to cultivate this plant in Poland, but most cultivation is amateur, resulting in primarily imported products being available for sale. The Polish climate allows for the cultivation of artichokes by sowing seeds in the ground during the months of April and May, with the plant producing abundant fans of leaves in the first year after sowing. Artichoke harvests take place in the following year after sowing. Only the flower buds are consumed, and the flower base can be prepared according to taste preferences – baked, steamed, or boiled as a side dish.

Due to its high content of polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties, common cartilage is considered a natural-origin food product that has a very beneficial effect on human health and body function. These compounds have hepatogenic, antioxidant, and cholesterol-lowering effects in the blood. Therefore, common cartilage has been designated as functional food. Functional food is food of natural origin that has an exceptionally positive impact on health and body function. It can reduce the risk of diseases or positively affect the well-being of consumers. Common cartilage meets these requirements, which is why its properties are highly valued and utilized, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. One of the most valuable biologically active substances in common cartilage is cynarin (1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid). It has a broad spectrum of liver-protecting effects: it stimulates bile production in the liver, supports fat digestion, lowers cholesterol levels in the blood, prevents fatty liver. Common cartilage, by lowering cholesterol and acting antioxidatively, also reduces the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation in blood vessels. It also supports digestion and has an antiemetic effect.

Depending on cultivation methods, the heads of a typical artichoke contain 12 to 19% dry matter. 100 grams of the product contains: about 3 grams of protein, 0.2 grams of fat, 10.5 grams of carbohydrates, and 5.4 grams of dietary fiber. The vegetable provides 57 kcal per 100 grams of product. It also contains mineral substances such as calcium, zinc, iron, or potassium. The edible parts of the artichoke are a good source of polyphenols (i.e., chlorogenic, coumaric, ferulic, cynarin, luteolin, apigenin acids). The content of these compounds depends on the variety and the part of the vegetable. The nutritional value of the artichoke is not large, however, due to the content of certain constituents, it is valued as a component used in the treatment process of digestive disorders.

Common artichoke is widely recognized for its weight-loss properties. This is due to its low-calorie content and the abundance of active biological compounds that aid in weight reduction. Chlorogenic acid exhibits liver-cleansing effects, removing harmful substances from the body, and, in collaboration with inulin, regulates blood glucose levels, thereby preventing overeating. Furthermore, the plant's nutrient - dietary fiber - reduces appetite, regulates digestion, and promotes metabolism. Moreover, artichoke prevents the onset of diseases that often accompany obesity or excessive weight. It regulates cholesterol levels, prevents the development of atherosclerosis, and lowers blood glucose levels, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes development. Recently, there have also been reports about the impact of an imbalanced gut flora on the development of obesity and excessive weight in humans. Inulin, acting as a prebiotic, selectively stimulates the growth of Bifidobacterium, thereby indirectly limiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Inulin, which is present in artichokes, demonstrates the ability to lower blood sugar levels in the body. Inulin influences insulin and glucagon levels in the human body and delays gastric emptying, which slows down the absorption and digestion of food. It is one of the elements that can be utilized in supportive therapy for treating type 2 diabetes.

Cardoons in tablet form are predominantly used in individuals with digestive disorders to aid the digestion process and to assist in treating cholesterol and high glucose level disturbances. In general, cardoons do not induce any undesirable side effects. However, they should not be used in persons with biliary obstruction. In patients with gallstones, supplementation should always be discussed with the treating physician.

The ingredients found in chicory have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in the production of anti-fungal cosmetics. The best raw material for making cosmetic products are chicory leaves, which have the strongest antibacterial effects. Chicory-derived ingredients are also used in preparations for treating atopic dermatitis and acne. Research confirms that the active substances in chicory have many beneficial properties, such as improving digestion, supporting the functioning of the digestive system, regulating glucose levels and lipid profiles, and treating inflammation.