Jerusalem versus globe artichoke - Letters to the Editor

Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients,  Oct, 2002  

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Editor:

I started reading one of your articles in the May issue (p. 94) which began by saying "The Jerusalem artichoke is one of the oldest medicinal plants used as a remedy, dating back to 4th Century BC." That made me smile and heartily agree because my husband and I have been growing JA's on our farm for the past 29 years for use as a successful, healthy sugar substitute for diabetics from the roots plus healthful, well-liked fodder for our farm animals, from the leaves.

However, when I continued reading, the article then said that the leaves were the most important part of the plant and were made into an extract. This statement did not sound like the Jerusalem artichoke plant.

Then I kept reading and when I turned to the last two pages, there was a picture of the plant...which was NOT the Jerusalem artichoke plant but rather the globe artichoke plant which is an entirely different species. So, you may wish to inform your readers of the correct name and info to allay the confusion that could be caused when they ask for the Jerusalem artichoke extract and are told it is not available.

Incidentally, your readers might be interested in knowing about the JA's health value...and if so, I would be pleased to tell them about that great plant which has been grown in this country for hundreds of years.

Harriet Amar

Email: amar@organicfarmland.com

COPYRIGHT 2002 The Townsend Letter Group
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group