Artichokes are fat-free, cholesterol-free, low-calorie, and can keep your heart healthy during pregnancy and protect against cardiovascular disease. A medium-sized artichoke provides about 1.33 milligrams of niacin, which helps in the healthy development of your newborn's skin.<br /><br />The edible part of an artichoke is the artichoke heart, which is actually the bud of the artichoke flower, which is formed before the flower begins to bloom. The flower head in its bud is a cluster of many small budding flowers, along with the edible base of the plant.<br />Artichokes can grow to a diameter of six feet, and a height of three to four feet.<br />Artichokes originated in the Mediterranean and have been used for centuries for their wonderful medicinal properties.<br />Benefits of the Artichoke Plant.<br />Artichokes are rich in antioxidants<br />Artichokes help lower cholesterol<br />Artichokes improve liver function<br />Artichokes are good for irritable bowel syndrome<br />Artichokes lower blood pressure<br />Artichokes are a good source of iron that prevents anemia<br />Artichokes improve skin health and appearance<br /><br />AL-Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq