Why Did I Choose The Artichoke? Symbolism, Nutrition & More

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Why did I choose the artichoke as the symbol of my new blog and brand?⠀

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The short answer: The artichoke is a food, a flower, a powerful nutritional and medicinal plant, one of the first foods I used as a substitute in the keto diet, and it’s a symbol of hope and prosperity.⠀

The artichoke is an amazing food, it is actually not a vegetable, but a thistle. Artichokes are low in fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, phosphorus, and magnesium. They are one of the most antioxidant-rich of all the “vegetables”.⠀

Their flavor is amazing, lending itself to anything from a bright, fresh salad to a creamy, unctuous dip or aioli.⠀

They are a large, prickly plant. Growing them is sometimes more for the novelty than for a substantial yield. If left unpicked they turn into an intriguing and beautiful purple flower, the artichoke opens into a purple thistle. I have often used these fresh and dried in arrangements and decorations. (I will be growing some this year so we’ll see.)⠀

In it’s medicinal use, the artichoke or artichoke leaf, is said to lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion, heart health, and liver health.

Artichokes are an ancient plant from the Mediterranean. At their core they have a very tender heart which is protected by strong outer layers – lending themselves to deep symbolism. They represent hope and prosperity.

For me, the artichoke represents what I hope to share here… delicious, nutritious, healthy foods… beautiful flowers, decor, and design… and things that are meaningful.⠀

Do you like artichokes? What’s your favorite way to eat them? Let me know in the comments below!

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Artichoke Food Images By Joanna Revers / Artichoke Flower Images By Markus Winkler .