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Artichoke (Cynara scolymus syn. Cynara cardunculus)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Artichoke, Globe Artichoke, Cardoon
  • Parts Used: Leaves, roots, flower buds

Description

Cynara scolymus is a perennial thistle native to the Mediterranean region, known for its edible flower buds and medicinal leaves. It has been valued since ancient times for its benefits to the liver, digestion, and cardiovascular system. Artichoke leaves, in particular, contain compounds that stimulate bile production and support overall liver health.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional Mediterranean medicine as a liver and digestive tonic.
  • Employed since ancient Greek and Roman times to promote digestion and improve bile flow.
  • Traditionally used to lower cholesterol and support heart health.

Constituents

  • Cynarin (aids liver function and bile production)
  • Flavonoids (antioxidant properties)
  • Inulin (prebiotic fiber)
  • Sesquiterpene lactones
  • Polyphenols

Actions

  • Hepatoprotective (supports liver function)
  • Cholagogue (stimulates bile flow)
  • Diuretic
  • Antioxidant
  • Hypocholesterolemic (reduces cholesterol)
  • Digestive tonic

Medicinal Uses

1. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Artichoke leaves are used to enhance liver detoxification and stimulate bile production, which aids digestion and detoxification.

2. Cholesterol and Heart Health:
Studies suggest that artichoke leaf extract can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and support cardiovascular function.

3. Digestive Aid:
Its bitter principles improve digestion by stimulating stomach acid production, reducing bloating and indigestion.

4. Blood Sugar Regulation:
Artichoke has been studied for its potential role in balancing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity.

5. Diuretic and Kidney Support:
Traditionally used as a mild diuretic to promote kidney function and detoxification.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Capsules or Tablets:

  • Standardized extracts (500-1000 mg) taken as directed for liver and digestive support.

Culinary Use:

  • The flower buds are commonly eaten steamed or roasted as a nutritious food.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in food amounts; medicinal use should be supervised by a healthcare provider.
  • Gallbladder Issues: Not recommended for individuals with bile duct obstruction or gallstones without medical advice.
  • Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family should use caution.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports digestion, liver health, and bile production.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears heat and dampness, tonifies the liver.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Pitta, but may increase Vata in excess.

Combinations

  • For Liver Detoxification: Combine with milk thistle and dandelion.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with ginger and fennel.
  • For Heart Health: Combine with hawthorn and garlic.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves are best collected in the spring and summer. Flower buds are harvested before they bloom.
  • Drying: Air dry leaves in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried leaves and roots in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Cynara scolymus’s benefits for liver health, cholesterol regulation, and digestive support, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

Artichoke remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern medicine, particularly for liver function, digestion, and cardiovascular support.