{"id":273,"date":"2020-07-01T10:09:10","date_gmt":"2020-07-01T09:09:10","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/84.18.216.250\/~herbalreality\/?post_type=herb&p=273"},"modified":"2026-01-23T09:13:56","modified_gmt":"2026-01-23T09:13:56","slug":"artichoke","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/artichoke\/","title":{"rendered":"Globe artichoke"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":282788,"parent":0,"menu_order":500,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"rest-api","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"81d4bb29-afde-49fa-b8b1-3e9262531f21","beyondwords_preview_token":"541a5f8b-6c6d-4ff7-b4d0-ee035d56c46e","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[38,40,41,42,39,44,43],"conditions":[685,694],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[18,786],"western_action":[1004,1823,1001,2062,1008,1013,1014],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1498,1382,1487],"writer":[],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-273","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-artichoke","tag-artichoke-leaf","tag-bitter","tag-digestion","tag-globe-artichoke","tag-hangover","tag-indigestion","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-cardiovascular-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-bitter","sense-cooling","western_action-cholagogue-and-choleretic","western_action-antihyperlipidaemic","western_action-bitter","western_action-digestive-tonic","western_action-diuretic","western_action-hepatic","western_action-hepatoprotective","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-cool","energetics_action-dry","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20250112","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Globe artichoke is used both as a vegetable and as a key liver remedy","latin_name":"Cynara scolymus<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Asteraceae","herb_summary":"The leaves of artichoke have a well established reputation for stimulating bile flow, restoring liver function and lowering cholesterol.","key_benefits":"Nausea and indigestion\r\nImproving digestion\r\nConstipation\r\nBile and gallbladder problems\r\nAs a detox remedy\r\nHigh cholesterol and metabolic syndrome","how_does_it_feel":"Artichoke can be found growing in allotments and gardens around the UK in the summer. Upon chewing a bit of the leaf, tasting a liquid extraction, the earthy bitterness is the first noticeable flavour. The fresh leaf is also used as a vegetable, with its warm earthy tones, similar to a root-like taste. However there is a lingering, almost comforting bitter aftertaste denoting its powerful bitter quality and action on the liver. The bitter taste becomes concentrated on drying.<\/span>","hdif_image_1":1980,"hdif_image_2":1982,"hdif_image_3":282789,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=3wKLwfenV-M","sense":[18,786],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_1980\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"512\"]\"Artichoke Artichoke (Cynara scolymus<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nArtichoke leaf is a <\/span>hepatic<\/span><\/a> remedy, acting on the liver by increasing bile and supporting digestion. It can be considered for those whose diet is rich in fatty foods or alcohol as it helps to effectively facilitate the breakdown of fat (1,2).\u00a0 It will often safely relieve biliary problems like recurrent gallbladder pains. This herb has a reputation for being used to relieve hangovers after overindulgence in alcohol, most likely due to its notable impact on bile production and liver metabolism (3).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke can be considered if cases of <\/span>constipation<\/span><\/a> which have not improved with the usual laxative remedies. As a <\/span>choleretic<\/span><\/a>, artichoke stimulates the production of bile, and its cholagogue action promotes the flow of bile into the intestine. Bile helps to stimulate peristalsis and soften stools, allowing for easier passage without the irritant quality of stimulant laxatives (2,4).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to its effect on lipid metabolism, artichoke can be applied for more long term use to reduce hyperlipidaemia. This indicates it in the treatment of <\/span>high cholesterol<\/span><\/a>, obesity and diabetes. Its hepatic actions make it useful in the treatment of metabolic syndrome as it helps to improve phase I and II liver metabolism, which are often impaired and contribute to disease severity in metabolic syndrome (2,4).\u00a0<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_8184\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"519\"]\"Artichoke Artichoke (Cynara scolymus<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nArtichoke is first a liver and bile remedy, and it can be applied to relieve \u2018liverish\u2019 conditions or \u2018crise de foie\u2019 which typically present as slow, sluggish or depressed states (5,6).<\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke\u2019s primary actions are through its cooling bitter properties. The actions of bitter herbs are primarily via promoting detoxification through the liver, and thus improving the quality of blood (6). The liver is responsible for metabolising hormones, drugs and fats, and is a key eliminatory organ in the body. Providing effective liver support is an important consideration across many conditions, and artichoke acts as an effective clearing herb (5,6).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe cooling energetics of this plant help to cool excess liver heat, something which is often associated with anger or irritation (5). Energetically, it can be seen to reduce thickness, heaviness or sluggishness as it relieves stagnation and helps to drain dampness from the body (5,6). This cooling quality also extends to relieving hot, congested\u00a0 or inflammatory states including chronic inflammation and disease. These same actions can be thought of with its effect on cholesterol\u2014 clearing, moving congestion and metabolising. <\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke can be thought of to help those who carry extra emotional weight, and may have difficulty letting go. This may also manifest with suppressed anger or frustration. Artichoke helps to clear these excess emotions, providing clarity and a feeling of lightness (4).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs with other traditional bitter remedies like <\/span>dandelion<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Taraxacum officinale<\/span><\/i>), there is a simultaneous diuretic effect. This helps to facilitate the removal of toxic metabolites from the body through the urine (3).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"The medicinal properties of artichoke have been known since antiquity, and it was particularly prized in the 16th to 19th centuries. It enjoyed a revival in the 20th century, particularly in France. This revival was in conjunction with the idea that an overburdened liver would result in ill health, and many conditions were considered a liver crisis \u2018crise de foie\u2019 (2).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke was widely considered one of the most effective detox remedies, indicated in \u2018liverish\u2019, to include gallbladder and biliary problems, nausea, and difficulty in metabolising fats and alcohol. Skin problems were often linked with this range of causes and were also treated with artichoke leaf. It was an established medicine for jaundice and hepatitis (7,8).<\/span>\r\n\r\n19th century Eclectic physicians in the USA used artichoke as a blood cleanser (depurative) for the treatment of rheumatism, gout, as well as jaundice. They also valued its diuretic properties and applied it to oedematous conditions, low urine production (oliguria) and urinary stones (2,8).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"

\"DigestiveDigestive system<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nArtichoke is a first choice for stimulating the production and release of\u00a0 bile from the liver through the bowel. Patients often report that their stools can become transiently more yellow after taking the remedy. It works by supporting liver function, rather than through a forceful stimulation, alleviating any strain on liver function. It can be used to relieve symptoms of liver stress or congestion, such as intolerance to fats and alcohol, or for biliary problems like gallstones or gallbladder inflammation, however it is contraindicated in biliary obstruction caution is advised in active gallstones\u00a0 (2,4,10). <\/span>\r\n\r\nAn indication the body may be struggling to digest fats include pale, greasy or stools that are difficult to pass. Adequate bile helps to prevent this, and increases absorption of fat soluble nutrients as well as promoting peristalsis (11). As a hepatic, it supports\u00a0 metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) as it helps to reduce hepatic fat and cholesterol accumulation (13).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke is an effective gentle bitter digestive remedy that can relieve many symptoms of upset digestion, notably nausea and vomiting (especially associated with rich, fatty food and alcohol consumption), constipation , flatulence, bloating and other symptoms of <\/span>IBS<\/span><\/a> (irritable bowel syndrome) (1,2,10). As a bitter it is also cooling and is appropriate for traditional \u2018damp-heat\u2019 patterns accompanied by yellow coating on the tongue, signs of liver distress, perhaps of inflammatory bowel problems and intolerance to heat and humidity (11). It has developed a reputation for being a prime remedy to aid recovery from hangovers (3,10).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nArtichoke works effectively in a blend with other herbs, it can be combined with <\/span>fennel<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Foeniculum vulgare<\/span><\/i>), <\/span>peppermint<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Mentha piperita<\/span><\/i>) or <\/span>chamomile<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Matricaria chamomilla<\/span><\/i>) for dyspepsia, bloating, flatulence or general abdominal discomfort (1,3). To treat constipation, it partners well with herbs with a stronger laxative and alterative action including <\/span>dandelion<\/span><\/a> root (<\/span>Taraxacum officinale<\/span><\/i>), burdock root (<\/span>Artium lappa<\/span><\/i>) or <\/span>yellow dock <\/span><\/a>root (<\/span>Rumex crispus<\/span><\/i>) (1,3).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Metabolic and inflammatory<\/span><\/h3>\r\nArtichoke can form part of a treatment protocol for the treatment of metabolic syndrome. It helps to lower lipid levels which indirectly help to improve insulin sensitivity. Dyslipidaemia is a defining feature of metabolic syndrome, thus artichoke is well placed to lower cholesterol and triglycerides (14,15).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Cardiovascular system<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\r\nArtichoke is known to support cardiometabolic support through its action on reducing dyslipidaemic factors contributing to <\/span>hypertension<\/span><\/a> and cardiovascular disease (16). By reducing cholesterol levels, this can prevent atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis by preventing endothelial damage and dysfunction (17). It helps to reduce oxidative stress within the endothelium and manage chronic low grade inflammation helping to indirectly support cardiometabolic factors (2,17).\u00a0<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_1981\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"521\"]\"Artichoke Artichoke (Cynara scolymus<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Effects of artichoke on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis<\/h3>\r\nThis systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of artichoke supplementation on blood pressure. Data was gathered from eight randomised controlled trials (RCTs), comprising adult men and women, generally middle-aged, with either diagnosed hypertension or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Participants received artichoke leaf supplementation (dosages varied across trials, typically standardised extracts) or placebo for 8\u201312 weeks.\r\n\r\nPrimary outcomes included changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). Results showed showed no significant effect of artichoke supplementation on SBP (WMD \u22120.77 mmHg, 95% CI \u22122.76 to 1.22) or DBP (WMD \u22120.11 mmHg, 95% CI \u22121.72 to 1.50) compared with placebo. However, subgroup analysis demonstrated that in hypertensive patients, artichoke supplementation significantly reduced SBP (WMD \u22123.19 mmHg, 95% CI \u22123.32 to \u22123.06) and DBP (WMD \u22122.33 mmHg, 95% CI \u22122.23 to \u22122.43), whereas no blood-pressure-lowering effect was observed in NAFLD patients. Additionally, interventions lasting 12 weeks significantly reduced DBP compared to the eight week treatment. The authors conclude that artichoke supplementation may offer modest but clinically relevant blood pressure reduction in hypertensive individuals, particularly with longer treatment times (16).\r\n

Effect of Cynara scolymus<\/i> L. on cardiometabolic outcomes: An updated meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials and meta-regression<\/h3>\r\nThis systematic review and meta-analysis explored the effect of artichoke on cardiometabolic outcomes including blood glucose, lipid levels, blood pressure, and anthropometrics. A total of 21 high quality RCTs were included covering a total of 1,372 participants between 20\u201360 years with conditions including hyperlipidaemia, metabolic syndrome, NAFLD, hypertension, or obesity. The treatment involved artichoke leaf extract or placebo with doses ranging from 50 to 2,700 mg\/day and durations between six weeks to six months.\r\n\r\nPrimary outcomes measured were fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, LDL-C, HDL-C, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), systolic\/diastolic blood pressure (SBP\/DBP), body weight (BW), and BMI and secondary outcomes included looking at liver enzymes. Results showed significant improvements in FBS (WMD \u22123.76 mg\/dL), fasting insulin (\u22121.35 mIU\/L), and HOMA-IR (\u22121.00), along with significant reductions in LDL-C (\u221212.94 mg\/dL), TC (\u221219.64 mg\/dL), and TG (\u221213.36 mg\/dL); SBP decreased modestly (\u22121.59 mmHg) when compared to placebo. Liver enzymes improved as secondary findings (AST \u22124.70 U\/L; ALT \u22123.72 U\/L). This study shows promising benefits of artichoke in the treatment of cardiometabolic dysfunction (17).\r\n

Effects of artichoke leaf extract supplementation or artichoke juice consumption on lipid profile: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials<\/h3>\r\nThis updated systematic review and meta-analysis explored the effects of artichoke (Cynara scolymus<\/i>) supplementation on lipid profiles. Data was analysed across 14 RCTs in participants with dyslipidaemia or related cardiovascular disease risk factors. Interventions included artichoke leaf extract or artichoke juice, with dosages ranging from 4\u201312 weeks. Primary outcomes included changes in triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C).\r\n\r\nResults showed that artichoke extract supplementation significantly reduced TG (WMD \u221217.01 mg\/dL), TC (WMD \u221217.01 mg\/dL), and LDL-C (WMD \u221217.48 mg\/dL), with no significant effect on HDL-C. In contrast, artichoke juice supplementation significantly reduced TG, TC, LDL-C, but was also associated with a reduction in HDL-C. Overall, the findings suggest that artichoke may help to prevent the risk of cardiovascular disease by improving lipid profiles (18).","did_you_know":"Artichoke leaf is widely favoured as one of the most effective treatments for hangovers (3). During the renaissance, and early modern Europe, the flower of artichoke was considered to provoke Venus and act as an aphrodisiac (19). <\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":250049},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Globe artichoke is a perennial plant in the Asteraceae (formerly Compositae), same as <\/span>milk thistle<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Silybum marianum<\/span><\/i>), and is a cultivated hybrid of a thistle, probably <\/span>Cynara cardunculus<\/span><\/i> L. It is a herbaceous plant which produces flowering stems of 1\u20132 m or more in length.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe basal, lobate-bipinnatisect leaves are very large, the stem leaves may be pinnatisect or entire.<\/span>\r\n\r\n The leaves are grey-green to silver in colour and the underside is covered with a dense layering of fine hairs. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe inflorescence is formed of purplish-blue flowers grouped in heads which have an involucre of several long bracts which may be spiny. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe fruit is an oval achene with a plumed pappus (tuft of bristles) (20).<\/span>","common_names":"