Artichokes were originally called French lilies, and they were first introduced from France in China, and then from China through Korea in Japan, so they were mistakenly called artichokes. The edible portions of the buds consist primarily of the fleshy lower portions of the involucral bracts and the base, known as the "heart"; the mass of immature florets in the center of the bud is called the "choke" or beard. These are inedible in older, larger flowers.
Artichoke leaf is low in fat and calories, so are excellent choices for traditional weight loss diets. Contributing essential minerals and fiber, Artichokes are a healthy addition to any eating plan. Artichokes are particularly high in antioxidants, in the form of vitamin C and phytonutrients, which are thought to protect cells against the attack of free radicals.
www.kingsci.com