Artichoke tea: know the benefits and contraindications

Artichoke tea is a caffeine-free beverage made by steeping the leaves or diluting the powder in hot water. Typically, the long serrated leaves from the stem are used to make tea. We consulted nutritionist Adriana Stavro (CRN 43576), who listed its main benefits and potential contraindications. Follow the article!

8 health benefits of artichoke tea

Artichoke tea is a drink full of significant properties for our body. Check out the list below for its main benefits:

• Antioxidant: According to the nutritionist, “One of the greatest benefits of artichoke tea is its antioxidant function. These properties help balance free radical (RL) activity, promoting protection against certain diseases such as: rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and eye disease (delays or prevents cataracts, macular degeneration and other age-related diseases ).”
• Lowers cholesterol: according to Adriana, “hypercholesterolemia is directly associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease and other sequelae of atherosclerosis. Artichoke leaf extract has been linked to lowering cholesterol levels.”
• Hepatoprotective artichoke tea stimulates liver function and bile production. Due to its beneficial action on the liver, it can help fight the negative consequences of alcoholism, through faster liver recovery.
• Reduces blood sugar levels: “contains inulin, which is hypoglycemic, recommended for diabetics, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels”, explains the nutritionist.
• Aids digestion: It can help treat poor digestion as it is gentle and soothing to the stomach.
• Increases HDL Cholesterol: According to the nutritionist, “During an 8-week randomized trial of 92 overweight people, results showed that participants supplemented with artichoke leaf extract had increased HDL (good) cholesterol.”
• Fights hypertension: Adriana says that “in a study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements in 2009, patients with slightly elevated blood pressure levels were fed artichoke leaf extract. After 12 weeks, those who drank the tea had lower blood pressure levels. Scientists have concluded that artichoke leaf can help reduce levels of mild hypertension.”
• Decreases symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): the nutritionist informs that “according to a study carried out in 2004 with 208 individuals, the result showed that people with IBS who received supplements of artichoke leaf extract, had a decrease of 26.4% in IBS incidences and their total symptom score decreased by 41%.

The artichoke is one of the most used medicinal plants since the oldest civilizations. Its form of tea was widely consumed by the ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks.

Contraindications of consumption of artichoke tea

Like other types of teas, there are also some contraindications regarding the consumption of this drink. Check out what they are and pay attention!

• For anyone who is allergic to chamomile and dandelion, there is a good chance that they are allergic to artichoke as well.
• In cases of diseases related to the kidneys, it is not recommended to consume the drink. Tea can cause cramping, especially in people who suffer from kidney stones.
• People who suffer from gallstones should also not ingest artichoke tea.
• Consumption of the drink should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation, as it can cause the milk to clot and reduce its production.
• Patients using anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents should consult their doctor before consuming the tea. Because the properties of the plant can interfere with the effect of these medications.

Despite having great benefits, it is important to pay attention to contraindications and avoid excessive consumption of tea.

How to make and drink artichoke tea to preserve its properties

The nutritionist guided how to make the tea to better enjoy its flavor. See how simple and quick it is to make!

How to make

• In 1 cup of tea, put ½ teaspoon of artichoke leaf extract;
• Boil 200ml of water and pour it into the cup;
• Stir until the powder (extract) is fully dissolved;
• Strain and drink immediately;
• Do not add any sweeteners, as artichoke tea has a natural mild sweetness.

Tips on how to get the most out of your benefits

• Adding hibiscus to tea is a great option to improve the taste of the drink. In addition, hibiscus has a diuretic action and can be an adjuvant in weight loss.
• Consuming tea after meals helps to improve the digestive process. However, tea intake is not recommended for those who suffer from excessive production of stomach acid.
• Mint is an aromatic herb that also aids digestion. By adding it to artichoke tea, it is possible to enhance the digestive action and even gain more flavor and aroma.
• Combining artichoke tea with ginger root is a simple way to get more benefits. Ginger has anti-inflammatory action and helps speed up metabolism. Just put a small piece in the infusion and drink normally.
• Prepare the drink and drink immediately so that it does not become bitter quickly. Also, you can add a few drops of lemon, this helps to soften the flavor.

As we have seen, artichoke tea is a quick and practical way to obtain health benefits. Enjoy and check out the advantages of consuming avocado leaf tea and contraindications.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.