If you like to drink a lot of tea like I do, you’ve probably tried them all: herbal teas, fruity teas, matcha green tea and more!
But have you ever heard of artichoke tea? It sounds a bit odd, I know! But this tea actually has numerous health benefits and it’s a good tea to add to your “to try” list.
Although it’s not as popular in the West as let’s say mint or chamomile tea, artichoke tea is quite healthy and sweet.
This article explores all you need to know about artichoke tea and includes the easiest way to brew it at home.
What is artichoke tea?
Artichoke tea is a beverage made from the leaves of the artichoke plant. The artichoke plant, also known as Cynara scolymus, is a member of the thistle family and is native to the Mediterranean region.
The leaves of the plant have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and have recently gained popularity as a tea.
To make artichoke tea, artichoke leaves are dried and then brewed into a tea. The resulting tea has a mild taste and is naturally caffeine-free.
Artichoke tea is a light green color and has a mild, slightly sweet taste. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often blended with other herbs or spices.
In Vietnam, artichoke tea is quite popular and it’s called tra atiso. In Mexico and Latin America, artichoke tea is also quite popular. It’s called Te De Alcachofa and it’s sold as loose leaf tea or tea bags.
What does artichoke tea taste like?
Well, artichoke tea isn’t as flavorful as some other herbal teas.
Its flavor is said to be smooth and naturally sweet. That is to say, you surely shouldn’t anticipate it to taste like the juice from a jar of pickled artichoke hearts that has been drained.
So, artichoke tea tastes slightly sweet and not as strong or bitter as some other herbal teas.
The brew has a slightly bitter taste, but it can also be sweetened with honey or sugar to improve the flavor. Some people also add mint or lemon to the tea to enhance its taste.
Is artichoke tea bitter?
Many people are afraid to try artichoke tea because they think it’s bitter. But, artichoke tea is not bitter. No matter how long it’s brewed, the artichoke tea doesn’t turn bitter.
So, artichoke tea is actually quite mild and pleasant. It’s naturally sweet and slightly nutty.
Does artichoke tea contain caffeine?
No, artichoke tea is naturally caffeine-free.
This makes it a great alternative for those who are looking for an herbal tea without the caffeine.
The good thing about caffeine-free teas is that you can drink them anytime of the day without worrying about disrupting your sleep cycle.
What are the benefits of artichoke tea?
Artichoke tea is believed to have several health benefits. It is thought to aid in digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and even help with weight loss.
The tea is also believed to have antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Artichoke tea is believed to have several health benefits. Some of the most notable include:
- Aiding in digestion: Artichoke tea is believed to stimulate the production of bile, which can help to improve digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion, such as bloating and gas.
- Lowering cholesterol levels: Studies have shown that artichoke leaf extract can lower cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Helping with weight loss: Artichoke tea may help to increase feelings of fullness, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and weight loss.
- Protecting the liver: Artichoke tea may help to protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and other harmful substances.
- Acting as an antioxidant: Artichoke tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Helping to lower blood pressure: Artichoke tea may help to dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Finally, I want to mention that many people drink artichoke tea because it’s said to aid with weight loss. However, it’s important to remember that drinking artichoke tea should not be used as a replacement for healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
It is important to note that while artichoke tea is considered safe for most people, it may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. Consult with your healthcare provider before drinking artichoke tea if you are taking any prescription medications.
Does artichoke tea clean your liver?
For those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, artichokes can enhance liver function, according to a few small trials.
There is proof that artichoke leaf extract can improve general liver health, even though there isn’t much information yet on how it might affect alcoholic fatty liver disease.
So generally, yes, artichoke tea may help clean your liver. However, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for a more specific recommendation tailored for your individual needs.
How to make artichoke tea at home
Artichoke tea is easy to make at home. Simply purchase dried artichoke leaves, or use fresh leaves if you have access to them.
Bring water to a boil, and then steep the leaves for several minutes. Then you can strain the leaves and enjoy your tea.
But my favorite way to drink artichoke tea is to just buy Herbacil Artichoke Tea Te De Alcachofa. This brand sells artichoke tea teabags that are easy to steep in minutes.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, artichoke tea is a healthy and tasty beverage made from the leaves of the artichoke plant.
It is believed to have several health benefits, including aiding in digestion, lowering cholesterol levels, and even helping with weight loss. It’s easy to make at home and can be enjoyed as a hot or iced tea.
Consult with your healthcare provider before drinking artichoke tea if you are taking any prescription medications.