Artichoke Leaf Extract: Amazing Herbal Remedy
Although the market is brimming with drugs and medication for almost all kinds of diseases, consumers today have become aware of natural herbal remedies. This is not surprising considering that these remedies contain natural ingredients and has very minimal side effects. One of the most popular herbal remedies is the artichoke leaf extract obtained from the artichoke plant (Cyanara scolymus).
The artichoke plant is actually endemic to Southern Europe, Canary Islands and North Africa. Its leaves are used as a cure for digestive disorders by the Ancient Romans and Greeks. The earliest documentation of its use as a medicinal plant dated back to the 16th century. Mode of Action Numerous studies and researches conducted on the plant showed its effectivity in lowering triglycerides and cholesterol. The active ingredients of this herbal plant include flavonoids and caffeeolyquinic acid. These compounds are considered to be antioxidants and particularly target the liver to improve its function. In particular, the artichoke leaf extract was proven to safely lower triglycerides and cholesterol by breaking them down into bile salts. At the same time, the extract regulates the liver’s production of these cholesterol and triglycerides. Other Health Benefits In addition to lowering triglycerides, artichoke leaf extract is also used for the treatment and management of dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. It also has antimicrobial activities and can even prevent an individual from hangovers due to consumption of alcoholic drinks. As Supplement Nowadays, making right food choices has become quite difficult with the availability of fast foods. It would certainly take an extra effort for most people to plan and monitor what they eat. Unfortunately, these people do not realize the danger posed by having a high amount of triglycerides in their system. Obtained from animal fats and vegetable oils, triglycerides are good sources of energy but in high amounts, they can remain in the arteries and cause blockage. Testing the triglyceride levels in your blood should be done regularly to avoid serious health problems such as stroke and atherosclerosis. People found to have high levels of triglycerides in their body can benefit well from taking artichoke leaf extract supplements. In addition to being convenient, these supplements contain the right amount of active ingredients that will ensure positive results. Of course, you will have to follow a strict low carbohydrate diet and make sure you eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and fish. The fiber and omega 3 fatty acids present in these foods can also help in lowering triglycerides. Although there are no known side effects, you should still consult your doctor before taking any artichoke supplement for lowering triglycerides. Because it can increase bile levels, persons diagnosed with gallstones and bile duct occlusions and not advised to take them. Women, who are pregnant or lactating, should first ask their obstetrician before including these supplements in their diet. Artichoke leaf extract supplements for lowering triglycerides are widely available in the market today. As a consumer, care must be taken when buying them. You should make sure that you buy from reliable distributors.
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