The artichoke plant has been found to lower cholesterol levels, detoxify the liver, promote healthier gall bladder function, and as a digestive aid.The Artichoke has been described as the lowly artichoke because of the way that it grows. The Plant reaches a height of 4 feet and spreads out to cover an area of about 6 feet. The Plant has a violet green flower head that is consumed as a vegetable. These flower buds are harvested while immature. You might want to start growing Cynara Scolymus in your garden but you need to be aware of the fact that this kind of plant will not survive harsh weather conditions. 
There are newer strains such as the Imperial Star and Northern Star that can survive the winter season if you take the right measures to protect them. The ideal time to start plant artichokes is in the spring. The flower bud is what is sought after in the Cynara Scolymus for its culinary uses. These buds have fleshy petals and bottoms. When all the petals are removed, the center is known as the artichoke heart. These are typically presented canned and are considered as a delicacy. The real Artichoke is also called French Artichoke or Globe Artichoke. The Jerusalem Artichoke is actually a tuber and though they have the same name, it bears no similarity to the Artichoke. When buying seeds to plant artichokes, you need to be aware of this fact. Artichoke plants have been used for medicinal purposes by the ancient European cultures. The chemical in the plant called Cyanin has been found to be able to lower cholesterol levels, detoxify the liver, promoting healthier gall bladder function, and as a digestive aid. You can buy Artichoke Extracts from most herbal stores or increase your consumption of this vegetable to obtain the health benefits. _________________________________________________________________ Top of Artichoke Plant Listed under Gardening Plants |