The plant from which the artichoke that we are commonly used to cooking in winter, belongs to a genus of only 8 species, that of the Asteraceae. It's a herbaceous plant typical of Mediterranean Europe and northern Africa, which can reach 2 meters in height. Its flowers, collected in lilac flower heads, are very showy and are often used for floral arrangements.
The diuretic and purifying properties
IThe artichoke is a very good one diuretic and purifying, is cholagogue, lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood and also has aregenerating action epatocyte (liver cells).
What are the active ingredients?
The active ingredients are mainly present in leaves. The most exploited active ingredient is the cinnarine, that stimulates diuresis and biliary secretion, but be careful how you take it, because it is inactivated by cooking. It is rich in sodium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and salts of iron, zinc, manganese ...it is a concentrate of minerals and trace elements. It contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C, E, K, but also mucilage and small quantities of flavonoid compounds with antioxidant properties such as beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthina.
How can it be used in our animals?
The artichoke is used in case of liver disorders including jaundice, thanks to its protective and antioxidant activity on in vitro hepatocytes. It was also effective in case of poisoning.
Its leaves are useful for reduce the synthesis of cholesterol and promote its elimination. It is a valid cholagogue and choleretic, like many bitter plants, inducing the contraction of the gallbladder and the release of bile, acting as a liver detoxifier, not 100% suitable in case of gallstones.
In the heart of the artichoke there is thechlorogenic acid, a substance with antioxidant properties, which is able to prevent arteriosclerotic and cardiovascular diseases.
By helping to balance the blood sugar level, it is also very suitable for diabetes.
As a natural source of Vit.K, it is highly recommended for promoting bone and brain health, especially in older animals.
The Union BIO Council for your horse
Union BIO, a company engaged for years in the sector of natural products for animals, formula Depur more, a safe and effective product for the horse riding, to draining and purifying action, enriched with the active ingredients extracted from this beneficial plant.
Photo credits: Thistle-Garden, emmapatsie
