Artichoke Leaf Extract (Cynara scolymus)
Artichoke Leaf Extract (Cynara scolymus)
Snapshot
Artichoke leaf extract supports liver function, cholesterol balance, digestion, and antioxidant protection—making it a powerful botanical for detox and metabolic health.
What is Artichoke Leaf Extract?
Artichoke leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the globe artichoke plant (Cynara scolymus), a thistle-like vegetable cultivated for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Unlike the edible flower bud, the leaves are used for their dense concentration of bioactive compounds. Artichoke leaf has a long history in traditional medicine, especially in European herbal pharmacopoeia, for its hepatoprotective, choleretic (bile-stimulating), and lipid-lowering properties.
Where It Comes From
The extract is typically produced from dried artichoke leaves, which are ground and standardized to specific levels of cynarin, chlorogenic acid, and other polyphenols. Most commercial extracts are sourced from Mediterranean-grown plants due to their robust nutrient profile. It is often used in herbal tinctures, capsules, or combined liver and digestion formulas.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Artichoke leaf extract is rich in polyphenols, particularly cynarin, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, and caffeoylquinic acids. These compounds have been studied for their antioxidant, liver-protective, and lipid-modulating effects. Cynarin, in particular, is known for stimulating bile production and supporting cholesterol metabolism.
Health Benefits
Artichoke leaf extract promotes liver detoxification by increasing bile secretion, aiding in the breakdown of fats and fat-soluble toxins. It may reduce symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and nausea after fatty meals. Clinical studies have shown that it helps lower total and LDL cholesterol while preserving HDL levels. Additionally, it provides antioxidant protection for liver cells, supports healthy glucose metabolism, and may aid in fat digestion and weight regulation.
Recommended Dosage
Standard dosages range from 300 mg to 1,800 mg per day, often divided into two or three doses. Supplements are typically standardized to 5% cynarin. For liver support or cholesterol balance, dosages of 500–1,000 mg per day are common. For indigestion, it may be taken 30 minutes before meals.
How to Use It
Artichoke leaf extract is available in capsules, powders, or liquid tinctures. It may be taken alone or combined with other liver-supportive herbs such as milk thistle, dandelion root, or turmeric. For optimal digestive benefits, take it with water just before meals.
Who Should Use It?
This extract is ideal for individuals looking to support liver health, reduce cholesterol naturally, or improve digestive comfort. It is especially useful for those who frequently experience bloating, sluggish digestion, or fat intolerance. It’s also a great option for those on detox or weight loss regimens.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
People with gallstones or bile duct obstructions should avoid using artichoke leaf without medical supervision due to its bile-stimulating effects. It may interact with cholesterol-lowering drugs or medications that affect liver enzymes. Allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed) may result in sensitivity. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Thoughts
Artichoke leaf extract is a clinically supported, natural solution for enhancing liver function, lowering cholesterol, and improving digestion. Whether you're focused on detox, heart health, or gut comfort, this botanical offers a clean and effective way to boost wellness from the inside out.
Scientific Studies
Bundy, R., Walker, A. F., Middleton, R. W., & Booth, J. C. (2004). Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a dose-dependent manner: A pilot study. Phytotherapy Research, 18(11), 957–961. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1562
Lupattelli, G., et al. (2004). Artichoke leaf extract reduces plasma cholesterol in hyperlipidemic adults: A randomized controlled trial. Phytomedicine, 11(2–3), 114–118. https://doi.org/10.1078/094471104322881090
Speroni, E., Cervellati, R., Govoni, P., & Guizzardi, S. (2003). Anti-oxidant properties of Cynara scolymus L. extract. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 51(3), 708–711. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf025855v
Marakis, G., et al. (2002). Hypolipidemic effects of artichoke leaf extract in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Phytomedicine, 9(8), 682–689. https://doi.org/10.1078/094471102321621322