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Better Nutrition March 2019

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For the Blood<br />

Detox your blood with a cooling herbal food. Known mainly as a striking vegetable, globe artichoke<br />

(Cynara scolymus) is an excellent detoxifier of the liver and gallbladder. Artichoke contains cynaropicrin,<br />

a sesquiterpene lactone that accounts for its characteristic bitter taste. Another substance found in<br />

artichoke, cynarin, promotes bile flow and has antitoxic liver functions similar to milk thistle. The<br />

globe artichoke brings blood to the liver and supports regeneration. It reduces blood fats, including<br />

cholesterol, and effectively treats gallstones, effects that also make it valuable in treating obesity.<br />

One study showed a significant reduction in elevated cholesterol (12.2 percent) and triglyceride<br />

(5.7 percent) levels in people who took<br />

artichoke extract. These patients also<br />

lost body weight. Another study with<br />

artichoke extract produced a significant<br />

reduction of cholesterol and an 11 percent<br />

improvement in general well-being over<br />

a period of 12 weeks.<br />

Artichoke leaf is normally consumed<br />

as a vegetable, but you can also juice the<br />

raw globe. Artichoke extract, made from<br />

the whole plant, is available as a dietary<br />

supplement.<br />

For Your Kidneys<br />

Punarnava (Boerhaavia<br />

diffusa) is a unique herb<br />

that helps maintain efficient<br />

kidney and urinary<br />

functions. Punarnava<br />

is a mild, well-tolerated<br />

diuretic, antispasmodic,<br />

and anti-inflammatory<br />

agent in the urinary tract.<br />

The anti-edema action is<br />

beneficial for disorders<br />

involving water retention,<br />

including congestive<br />

heart failure, asthma,<br />

scanty urine, and internal<br />

inflammation. A 2014<br />

review paper found<br />

multiple benefits for the<br />

urinary system, including<br />

reducing kidney stones,<br />

inflammation, edema,<br />

and liver damage. Use<br />

250–500 mg per day in<br />

decoction or capsules.<br />

For Your Digestion & Colon<br />

Triphala, an Ayurvedic combination of the fruits amalaki, haritaki, and bibhitaki, is a classic<br />

herbal remedy for long-term digestive help. It tones the intestinal walls, detoxifies the system,<br />

and promotes easy evacuation. Triphala is suitable for children and is ideal for older folks<br />

who need just a little daily help with regularity. As a short-term laxative to detox the colon,<br />

use 6 grams per day. An easy bowel movement should come in about 8 hours.<br />

FORMULAS FOR WHOLE-BODY CLEANSING<br />

Bluebonnet<br />

Targeted Choice Liver<br />

Detox contains sustainably<br />

harvested/wildcrafted herbs<br />

including dandelion.<br />

NOW Liver Refresh features<br />

artichoke along with<br />

liver-friendly nutrients such<br />

as NAC.<br />

Paradise Herbs Triphala<br />

is a concentrated,<br />

full-spectrum formula,<br />

processed without toxic<br />

solvents.<br />

Flora Flor•Essence is a<br />

gentle detox elixir with<br />

burdock and other herbs.<br />

Organic India Liver Kidney<br />

blends Punarnava with<br />

other cleansing Ayurvedic<br />

herbs.<br />

32 • MARCH <strong>2019</strong>

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