The globe Artichoke (not to be confused with a different plant called Jerusalem Artichoke) is a large thistle-like plant native to the Mediterranean and Northern Africa. The flower heads or globe, make a delicious dish with olive oil. However, it is the leaf that is used in herbal medicine.
Action of Artichoke
Artichoke contains amongst many, a bitter compound called cynarin, which acts as digestive tonic to the liver and gall bladder. Cynarin is a diuretic and has chloretic (bile stimulating) action which helps with fat digestion.
Artichoke Uses
Our experts recommend topical Artichoke for the following disorders
| gallstones
| High cholesterol
| Indigestion
Other Artichoke Information
Artichoke is often used by herbalists to stimulate appetite and as an aid to fluid retention. It is also a great cleanser and detoxifier and can be eaten as a food but is more potent in tablets or capsules as a standardised extract. It is also available in a liquid elixir.
Cautions When Using Artichoke
| Generally, there are no side effects or contra-indications from using Artichoke herbal supplements.
| The safety of Artichoke during pregnancy or lactation has not been sufficiently investigated.
| Artichoke supplements should not be used for children under the age of 12, unless advised by a qualified herbalist.
| When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Artichoke.
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