Jerusalem artichoke (Healianthus tuberosus) is also known as wild potato. Instead of starch, chichirica contains inulin. It also contains probiotic which stimulates development of beneficial intestinal bacteria.
This plant is cultivated around the world. Its root is the part that is eaten. It can grow up to three meters in height, has yellow flowers and it is incredible healthy.
Jerusalem artichoke belongs into highly nutritious vegetables with low energy value. 100 grams of Jerusalem artichoke there is 70 kcal. It contains 17% carbohydrates, 1.5% protein and 0.2% fats. It is rich in vitamins of group B, vitamin E and C and beta-carotene (vitamin A’s provitamin). This plant also contains potassium and phosphorus.
Jerusalem artichoke’s inulin helps in normalizing digestion, repairs red flora in case of antibiotic intake, helps in constipation and red infections.
Also, inulin normalizes the level of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood, thus preventing cardiovascular disease and gradually reducing the fat that bothers many people with excess weight.
This amazingly healthy plant contains essential amino acids that cannot be produced by our body. These essential amino acids are necessary for normal functioning of almost all vital biological functions of the body.
This vegetable was unknown not long time ago. Thanks to inulin, it has secured its place in the diet.
Inulin is indigestible vegetable fiber. Tuber vegetables contain inulin, because it is an excellent substitute for potatoes and recommended in the diet of diabetics.
Inulin maintains intestines’ health. It destroys harmful microorganisms thus prevents intestine infections. Jerusalem artichoke repairs red flora and is especially recommended after antibiotic therapy, which can disrupt the normal red flora.
Inulin is also great for diabetics. Fresh Jerusalem artichoke regulates blood sugar level.
It reduces the level of triglycerides and cholesterol. It also improves mineral absorption by 20%, this goes especially for potassium, magnesium and iron. This is why this plant is recommendable against anemia and osteoporosis.
The best way to eat this plant is raw, in a form of salads because this way it is most useful. However, it can also be boiled.
For external uses, it treats deprivation, rashes and hemorrhoids.
It also helps with high blood pressure, increased fats in the blood, anemia, osteoporosis and increased fats in the blood.
It improves fertility and is excellent for cleansing the body of toxins. It is also useful in prevention and treatment of allergy, reduces the concentration of enzymes which cause cancer. However, its role is particularly important in the prevention and treatment of malignant diseases of the colon.