Nutritional Information: Artichoke

The artichoke is an excellent source of potassium and magnesium and a good source of folic acid. It also supplies vitamin C, copper, iron, phosphorus, niacin, vitamin B6, zinc, pantothenic acid, and calcium. Artichokes contain substances that are said to stimulate the secretion of bile. They are also credited with a number of medicinal properties: they are said to be a good appetite stimulant, blood cleanser, antitoxin, and diuretic, in addition to being excellent for the liver. The therapeutic effects of the artichoke are maximized by infusing the plant’s large indented leaves (not the leaves on the artichoke itself that are eaten).