PubMed-compiled information sheet
This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.
Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b
Summary
Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) is a Mediterranean plant used as both a food and a medicinal herb, recognized for its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties [PMID:26310198, PMID:38474726].
Background
Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus, also known as globe artichoke, is a perennial plant of the Asteraceae family cultivated primarily in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Egypt, Asia, and South America [PMID:38474726, PMID:23179714]. Its edible parts include the head (capitula), flower, and leaves [PMID:38474726].
Traditional uses
Historically, artichoke has been used for digestive and bowel problems [PMID:26310198].
Active compounds
Bioactive compounds include polyphenols (such as chlorogenic acid, mono-O- and di-O-caffeoylquinic acids, and cynaroside), flavonoids (luteolin and apigenin), sesquiterpene lactones (cynaropicrin), inulin, and dietary fiber [PMID:38592769, PMID:36556233, PMID:39203039, PMID:33118389].
Mechanism of action
Artichoke exhibits antioxidant, choleretic, and lipid-lowering effects [PMID:26310198]. Specific compounds like cynaropicrin may inhibit NF-κB activation [PMID:33982042], while other extracts demonstrate the ability to trap carbonyls and act as antiglycative agents [PMID:28873750].
Clinical evidence
Evidence BNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Artichoke leaf extract (600 mg daily) increased hepatic vein flow and reduced portal vein diameter compared to placebo [PMID:29520889].
Evidence AHypercholesterolaemia
While implicated in lowering cholesterol levels, the efficacy of artichoke leaf extract remains a matter of debate [PMID:19821306, PMID:12137691].
Evidence CGeneral Liver Health
Demonstrated hepatoprotective and bile-enhancing effects [PMID:26310198, PMID:23421105].
Safety & adverse effects
One clinical trial reported no side effects with the use of artichoke leaf extract [PMID:29520889]; it is described as having practically no side effects [PMID:23421105].
Evidence summary
Evidence is strongest for hepatoprotective effects and antioxidant potential, supported by a mix of RCTs and reviews. Evidence for treating hypercholesterolaemia is inconclusive according to systematic reviews.
PubMed sources
- 1.PMID: 26310198 (2015) — Pharmacological Studies of Artichoke Leaf Extract and Their Health Benefits. · Plant foods for human nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands)
- 2.PMID: 38542782 (2024) — Functional and Therapeutic Potential of Cynara scolymus in Health Benefits. · Nutrients
- 3.PMID: 29520889 (2018) — Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial. · Phytotherapy research : PTR
- 4.PMID: 38790727 (2024) — Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) By-Products in Food Applications: Functional and Biological Properties. · Foods (Basel, Switzerland)
- 5.PMID: 38474726 (2024) — An Overview of the Versatility of the Parts of the Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), Its By-Products and Dietary Supplements.