Nea Paphos, Cyprus — Roman mosaic, 2nd–3rd century AD

The plant is said to have Originated in Sicily and later introduced throughout the Mediterranean and the rest of Europe by the Spanish. However there are many different ideas on where the plant originated due to the plant being deeply rooted in Myths and legends in different Mediterranean regions.

By the time the 16th century came about the herb was well introduced into many parts of  Europe and was a favourite among royalty. Catherine De Medici (who introduced it to France) and King Henry VIII who was said to have obtained the plant from the Dutch. Spanish and Italians settlers later introduced the plant to other parts of the world such as America and Australia.

Abraham Bosse — The Five Senses: Taste, c. 163

Traditional Benefits

Globe Artichoke was traditionally eaten as a vegetable and the leaves as tea. It was given in cases of digestive upset, liver conditions and to increase bile flow. Due to its slightly bitter taste it was traditionally given to internally cleanse and support bowl movement. The flower heads (or buds) of the artichoke plant are the part of the plant consumed as a vegetable. Modern research shows this part of the artichoke is high in fibre, vitamin C, folate and minerals (magnesium, potassium and phosphorus). The Ancient Greeks and Romans also consumed this herb for its diuretic benefits. Consuming the heads in order to urinate and increase bowl movement.

Modern research shows that the globe artichoke is most commonly known for its benefits to the liver, digestion and cholesterol support. Its bitter taste, active compounds and constituents are all responsible for this herb’s ability to assist the liver in detoxifying, support a balanced gut and digestion, and reduced cholesterol by increasing the flow of bile. This is where the traditional practice of Artichoke leaf consumption comes in hand as an easy and traditionally medicinal herb. It was often consumed as an aperitif (before meals) or digestif (after meals) to assist the stomach in digesting heavy meals. It was taken as an alcoholic preparation (what we know now as tinctures) or just as a tea. The leaf is very bitter and this is what signals to the digestive system to start preparing to digest.

Globe Artichoke was also traditionally considered a scandalous herb as it held a reputation of being an aphrodisiac that women would take to assist them in tfalling pregnant. Modern research does not confirm this but backs up the herbs ability to help with liver detoxification, bile flow and even blood sugar balance as potential further supporting hormonal balance and therefor supporting fertility in both men and women.

Artichoke leaf can be taken as a tea for a quick and effective way of consuming it. It can be unpalatable to some, so balancing the taste with honey or lemon can be helpful.