Artichoke has been used medicinally since the beginning of the twentieth century to improve digestion. Historically used as a tea, Artichoke is now preferred in the form of standardized extracts for consistent, more predictable results. Traditional uses have included support for sluggish liver, poor digestion and atherosclerosis. Research on standardized Artichoke extract has focused on the constituent, caffeoylquinic acid, and its ability to increase bile production in the liver. An increase in bile production assists the body in blood fat metabolism, which enhances the digestion process. Artichokes also contain cynarin which has been reported to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Artichokes are popular in many food dishes, where the heart of the plant is favored. The other parts of this plant, such as the head, roots and leaves, each have known nutritional benefits. Due to its diuretic activities, Artichoke works well in the treatment of kidney diseases.
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Fennel Seed originally came from Europe and is also cultivated in many parts of North America, Asia and Egypt. The major constituents of Fennel, which include the terpenoid, anethole, are found in the volatile oil. Anethole and other terpenoids inhibit spasms in smooth muscles, such as those in the intestinal tract, and this is thought to contribute to Fennel's use as a carminative (to relieve gas). Related compounds to anethole may have mild estrogenic actions, although this has not been proven in humans. Fennel is also thought to possess diuretic, choleretic, pain-reducing, fever-reducing and antimicrobial actions. The seeds are used as a flavoring agent in many herbal medicines and foods, and to help disperse flatulence. The seeds and roots also help to open obstructions of the liver, spleen and gallbladder, and to ease painful swellings, in addition to helping with jaundice, gout and occasional cramps. Fennel Seed was formerly an official drug in the United States, and was listed for the treatment of indigestion.
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