Can Artemisia selengensis lower cholesterol?
Generally, Artemisia selengensis (commonly known as "luhao") has certain auxiliary benefits in regulating cholesterol levels, but it cannot directly lower cholesterol. When consuming luhao, attention should be paid to balanced pairing and moderate intake. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Artemisia selengensis is a common herbaceous vegetable. In terms of nutritional components, it contains abundant dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and various phytochemicals. Among these, dietary fiber can bind with some fats in the intestines, reducing fat absorption and providing auxiliary support for maintaining stable blood lipid levels. Vitamin C and other components can participate in bodily metabolism, offering foundational support for cardiovascular health. However, Artemisia selengensis is not a medication; it cannot directly affect the synthesis or metabolism of cholesterol and cannot replace professional lipid-lowering methods.
Excessive consumption of Artemisia selengensis may lead to gastrointestinal discomforts such as bloating and abdominal pain, due to excessive intake of dietary fiber accelerating intestinal motility. It is recommended to use light cooking methods such as stir-frying or blanching followed by cold mixing, and avoid pairing with excessive oily seasonings, which may counteract its health benefits.