Alcachofra is the Brazilian name for the globe artichoke. A member of the milk thistle family, it grows to a height of about 2 m and produces a large, violet-green flower head. The flower petals and fleshy flower bottoms are eaten as a vegetable throughout the world, which has led to its commercial cultivation in many parts of South and North America (chiefly California) as well as in Europe. The artichoke was used as a food and a substance used in managing discomfort by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans; in Rome, the artichoke was an important menu item at feasts. It wasn't until the fifteenth century, however, that it made its appearance throughout Europe.

Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Cynara
Species: scolymus
Synonyms: None
Common Names: Globe artichoke, alcachofra, alcachofera, artichaut, tyosen-azami
Part Used: Leaves, flowers

Tribal & Herbal a substance used in managing discomfort Uses

Artichoke has been used in traditional a substance used in managing discomfort for centuries as a specific liver and gallbladder remedy. In Brazilian herbal a substance used in managing discomfort systems, leaf preparations are used for liver and gallbladder problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, High blood pressure, anemia, diarrhea (and elimination in general), fevers, An eroded sore in the inner lining of digestive tracks, and gout. In Europe, it is also used for liver and gallbladder Malfunction of mind or bodys; in several countries, standardized herbal drugs are manufactured and sold as prescription drugs for high cholesterol and digestive and liver Malfunction of mind or bodys. Other uses around the world include Favorable Effects for dyspepsia and chronic albuminuria. In France, a patent has been filed that describes an artichoke extract for treating liver problem, high cholesterol levels, and kidney insufficiency. In all herbal a substance used in managing discomfort systems where it is employed, artichoke is used to increase bile production in the liver, increase the flow of bile from the gallbladder, and to increases the contractive power of the bile duct. These bile actions are beneficial in many digestive, gallbladder, and liver Malfunction of mind or bodys. Artichoke is also often used to mobilize fatty stores in the liver and detoxify it, and as a natural aid to lower cholesterol.

Plant Chemicals

The artichoke is popular for its pleasant bitter taste, which is attributed mostly to a plant chemical called cynarin found in the green parts of the plant. Cynarin is considered one of artichoke's main biologically active chemicals. It occurs in the highest concentration in the leaves of the plant, which is why leaf extracts are most commonly employed in herbal a substance used in managing discomfort. Other documented "active" chemicals include flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, polyphenols and caffeoylquinic acids.

In the 1970s, European scientists first documented cynarin's ability to lower cholesterol in humans. Over the years, other researchers have continued to document artichoke's or cynarin's effect in this area. One of the more recent studies, published in 2000, was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that used an artichoke leaf extract that was standardized to its cynarin content. For six weeks, 143 patients with high cholesterol were given the extract; at the end of the test, results showed a decrease of 10%-15% in total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), and ratio of LDL to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Scientists now report that the cholesterol-lowering effect of artichoke can be attributed to chemicals other than just cynarin, including several newly discovered ones.

The liver detoxifying and protective properties of artichoke first came to the attention of researchers in 1966 (in a study that supported its effect on liver regeneration in rats). A 1987 study that focused on the effects of rat liver cells subjected to harmful chemical agents found both cynarin and caffeic acids (both in artichoke) to have significant protective effects.

Artichoke's main plant chemicals are caffeic acid, caffeoylquinic acids, caryophyllene, chlorogenic acid, cyanidol glucosides, cynaragenin, cynarapicrin, cynaratriol, cynarin, cynarolide, decanal, eugenol, ferulic acid, flavonoids, folacin, glyceric acid, glycolic acid, heteroside-B, inulin, isoamerboin, lauric acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, luteolin glucosides, myristic acid, neochlorogenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, phenylacetaldehyde, pseudotaraxasterol, scolymoside, silymarin, sitosterol, stearic acid, stigmasterol, and taraxasterol.

Biological Activities & Clinical Research

Investigations are still being conducted on artichoke's beneficial effects on liver and gallbladder functions. The most recently documented finding, in 2002, noted that an artichoke leaf extract reversed damage done by harmful chemicals in rat liver cells and, in doing so, enhanced bile production.

A portion of artichoke's liver protective properties is thought to be attributed to its documented antioxidant actions. A 2002 study focused on the antioxidant effects of artichoke extract in cultured blood vessel cells and reported that the extract demonstrated "marked protective properties against oxidative stress induced by inflammatory mediators . . ." Artichoke's antioxidant properties were also confirmed in an earlier (2000) study that focused on human white blood cells under various induced oxidative stresses.

A 1999 clinical investigation focused on gallbladder function. It "showed the efficacy and safety of artichoke extracts (Cynara scolymus L.) in the Favorable Effects of hepatobiliary dysfunction and digestive complaints, such as sensation of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal Discomfort." A 2000 study took this notion a step further. It was known that artichoke extract was indicated for dyspepsia, a digestive Malfunction of mind or body involving the esophagus, duodenum, and upper gastrointestinal tract, but there are many symptom overlaps between dyspepsia and eroded inner lining of G.I.T. syndrome (IBS). A subgroup of patients with IBS was distilled from the dyspepsia study group and was monitored for 6 weeks after the original study had ended. Of the IBS patients, 96% rated artichoke leaf extract as better than or at least equal to previous therapies administered for their IBS symptoms.

Current Practical Uses

The history of artichoke is a perfect example of science finally catching up to the longstanding traditional uses of a medicinal plant. While scientists still argue today over which specific chemical or group of chemicals is responsible for each documented beneficial action, the traditional uses for high cholesterol, as well as for liver, gallbladder, and digestive Malfunction of mind or bodys, are being validated. While many Europeans still have to see their doctors for an artichoke extract prescription, concentrated natural leaf extracts and standardized extracts are widely available in the United States at health food stores. With the growing American trend to find more natural and healthy alternatives, these products will probably gain in popularity as consumers learn more of the most recent research studies. However, the most effective method to control cholesterol is with a sensible diet. Unfortunately, there are no magic bullets.

Traditional Preparation: Traditionally, 1 to 3 cups of a standard leaf infusion are taken daily after meals; 3-4 ml of a concentrated 4:1 liquid extract, or 3-5 g daily of dried herb in capsules, or tablets can be substituted, if desired. With standardized extract products, follow the instructions on the product label.

Contraindications: None reported for internal use. Dermatitis following contact with the fresh plant and leaves has been reported.

Artichoke has been documented in traditional uses to be hypoglycemic; however, no clinical studies have been published to confirm this action. Diabetics and people with hypoglycemia should use this plant product with caution and monitor their blood sugar levels closely in anticipation of these possible effects.

Drug Interactions: Artichoke extracts have been documented to lower blood cholesterol in human and animal studies and, as such, may potentiate the effects of cholesterol-lowering and statin drugs.
 

1. "Alcachofra is Brazilian artichoke. It effectively flushes uric acid from the system and is used as a increased urination. It increases gall bladder secretions and is used as an auxiliary remedy for digestive Malfunction of mind or bodys. Liver Malfunction of mind or bodys, especially those associated with alcoholism and malaria benefit from Alcachofra. It is thought to have a cleansing and healing effect on both the liver and gall bladder. Alcachofra's high content of iron nourishes the blood. It has also been found to decrease cholesterol and blood pressure. Caution: Avoid if breast-feeding. Alcachofra may decrease milk production."

2. "Artichoke leaf has a reputation as a choleretic (stimulates bile), increased urination and general stimulant. It Enhances to neutralize excessive acid in the body. It has been used for jaundice and dropsy."

3. "ACTIONS: Aids elimination of uric acid, Fortifies liver and gallbladder, Nourishes blood. TRADITIONAL USE: Alcachofra (Brazilian Artichoke) has a cleansing and healing effect on the liver and gallbladder. Also know to neutralize acidity in the system. High in nutrients known to have increased urination effects. Flushes uric acid from the system. Augments the secretion of bile. Used as an auxiliary in the Favorable Effects of liver and digestive Malfunction of mind or bodys. Nourishes the blood and relieves arterial pressure. Enhanceful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. MERIDIAN INDICATIONS: Clears liver congestion, Nourishes liver blood, Increases Kidney Yang EAV POINTS: Liver, Gallbladder, Spleen."

14. "Artichoke extract and/or cynarin, the main active consituent, has cholagogue [increases bile production by the liver]/ choleretic [increases flow of bile from the gallbladder] / choliokinetic action [ increases the contractive power of the bile duct].
Research has shown that caffeic acid, a component of cynarin, is almost as effective as pure cynarin, suggesting that caffeic acid is the substance responsible for the choleretic action.
Artichoke has been shown to increase the production and volume of bile flow by as much as four times normal in a 12-hour period.
Artichoke protects liver from poisonous effects of toxins in a manner similar to silymarin from milk thistle. It is able to Beneficial Effects liver damage from the same wide range of poisons as milk thistle. Artichoke extract is also able to stimulate the regeneration of liver cells in much the same manner as does silymayin. The usefulness of artichoke for Beneficial Effectsing blood and liver cholesterol elevation in the presence of toxins such as alcohol is also of note. Application in today's world would also include the Beneficial Effectsion of liver damage due to air-, water- and food-borne toxins. A French patent describes an artichoke extract for treating liver problem, high cholesterol levels and kidney insufficiency. Cynarin, and not pure caffeic acid, appears to be the component most responsible for this action.
Artichoke has lipid-producing and anticholesterolemic action. Artichoke reduces blood fats. It reduces cholesterol and cholinesterase levels. In simplest terms, the net effect of artichoke extract appears to be the result of both an activation of and an interference with cholesterol metabolism. That is, it mobilizes fat stores from the liver and other tissues such as white adipose tissue, and these fats pour into the blood from which they are subsequently excreted from the body. Cynarin decreases the rate of cholesterol synthesis in the liver, enchances biliary excretion of cholesterol, and increases conversion towards the bile acids. Not only cholesterol but other blood fats such as triglycerides can be reduced through the use of artichoke."

15. "Scientific evidence supports the use of artichoke as a liver remedy. Cynarin is the active ingredient contained in the plant, and its highest concentration is in the leaves. According to reports, cynara (artichoke leaves) extract has demonstrated significant liver regenerating and protecting effects."

All available third-party research on artichoke can be found at PubMed. A partial listing of the published research on artichoke is shown below:

Anti-cholesterol Actions:
Lupattelli, G., et al. “Artichoke juice improves endothelial function in hyperlipemia.” Life Sci. 2004 Dec; 76(7):775-82.
Thompson Coon, J. S., et al. “Herbs for serum cholesterol reduction: a systematic view.” J. Fam. Pract. 2003; 52(6): 468-78.
Shimoda, H., et al. “Anti-hyperlipidemic sesquiterpenes and new sesquiterpene glycosides from the leaves of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.): structure requirement and mode of action.” Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett. 2003; 13(2): 223–28.
Gebhardt, R. “Inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis in HepG2 cells by artichoke extracts is reinforced by glucosidase preFavorable Effects.” Phytother. Res. 2002; 16(4): 368–72.
Wegener, T. “The status of herbal antilipemic agents.” Wien. Med. Wochenschr. 2002; 152(15-16): 412-7.
Englisch, W., et al. “Efficacy of artichoke dry extract in patients with hyperlipoproteinemia.” Arzneimittelforschung 2000; 40(3): 260–65.
Gebhardt, R. “Anticholestatic activity of flavonoids from artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and of their metabolites.” Med. Sci. Monit. 2001 May; 7 Suppl 1:316-20.
Gebhardt, R. “Inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis in primary cultured rat hepatocytes by artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) extracts.” J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 1998; 286(3): 1122–28.
Brown, J. E., et al. “Luteolin-rich artichoke extract protects low density lipoprotein from oxidation in vitro.” Free Radic. Res. 1990; 29(3): 247–55.
Wojcicki, J., et al. “Cynarin and hyperlipidemia” Wiad. Lek. 1977 Oct; 30(19): 1539-41
Pristautz, H., et al. “Cynarin in the modern management of hyperlipemia.” Wien. Med. Wochenschr. 1975; 125(49): 705–9.
Montini, M., et al. “Controlled application of cynarin in the Favorable Effects of hyperlipemic syndrome. Observations in 60 cases.” Arzneimittelforschung 1975; 25(8): 1311–14.
Bobnis, W., et al. “Case of primary hyperlipemia treated with cynarin.” Wiad. Lek. 1973; 26(13): 1267–70.
Grogan, J. L., et al. “Potential hypocholesterolemic agents: dicinnamoyl esters as analogs of cynarin.” J. Pharm. Sci. 1972; 61(5): 802–3.

Digestive Actions:
Emendorfer, F., et al. “ Antispasmodic activity of fractions and cynaropicrin from Cynara scolymus on guinea-pig ileum.” Biol. Pharm. Bull. 2005; 28(5): 902-4.
Emendorfer, F., et al. “Evaluation of the relaxant action of some Brazilian medicinal plants in isolated guinea-pig ileum and rat duodenum.” J. Pharm. Pharm. Sci. 2005 Mar; 8(1): 63-8.
Wittemer, S. M., et al. “ Bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of caffeoylquinic acids and flavonoids after oral administration of Artichoke leaf extracts in humans.” Phytoa substance used in managing discomfort. 2005; 12(1-2): 28-38.
Bundy, R., et al. “Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of eroded inner lining of G.I.T. syndrome and improves quality of life in otherwise healthy volunteers suffering from concomitant dyspepsia: a subset analysis.” J. Altern. Complement. Med. 2004 Aug; 10(4): 667-9.
Holtmann, G., et al. “Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in the Favorable Effects of patients with functional dyspepsia: a six-week placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicentre trial.” Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. 2003 Dec; 18(11-12): 1099-105.
Walker, A. F., et al. “Artichoke leaf extract reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in a post-marketing surveillance study.” Phytother. Res. 2001; 15(1): 58-61.
Wegener, T., et al. “Pharmacological properties and therapeutic profile of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)” Wien. Med. Wochenschr. 1999; 149(8-10): 241-7. 

Actions on Gallstones & the Gallbladder:
Glasl, S., et al. "Choleretic effects of the Mongolian medicinal plant Saussurea amara in the isolated perfused rat liver." Planta Med. 2006 Dec 19;
Benedek, B., et al. "Choleretic effects of yarrow (Achillea millefolium S.L.) in the isolated perfused rat liver." Phytoa substance used in managing discomfort. 2006 Nov; 13(9-10): 702-6.
Hiner, A. N., et al. “ Kinetic study of the effects of calcium ions on cationic artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) peroxidase: calcium binding, steady-state kinetics and reactions with hydrogen peroxide.” Biochimie. 2004; 86(9-10): 667-76.
Saenz Rodriguez, T., et al. “Choleretic activity and biliary elimination of lipids and bile acids induced by an artichoke leaf extract in rats.” Phytoa substance used in managing discomfort. 2002 Dec; 9(8): 687-93.
Gebhardt, R. “Anticholestatic activity of flavonoids from artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and of their metabolites.” Med. Sci. Monit. 2001; (7) Suppl. 1: 316–20.

Liver Protective Actions:
Speroni, E., et al. “Efficacy of different Cynara scolymus preparations on liver complaints.” J. Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Jun; 86(2-3): 203-11.
Betancor-Fernandez, A., et al. “Screening pharmaceutical preparations containing extracts of turmeric rhizome, artichoke leaf, devil's claw root and garlic or salmon oil for antioxidant capacity.” J. Pharm. Pharmacol. 2003; 55(7): 981-6.
Gebhardt, R. “Beneficial Effectsion of taurolithate-induced hepatic bile canalicular distortions by HPLC-characterized extracts of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) leaves.” Planta Med. 2002; 68(9): 776–79.
Aktay, G., et al. “Hepatoprotective effects of Turkish folk remedies on experimental liver injury.” J. Ethnopharmacol. 2000 Nov; 73(1-2): 121-9.
Adzet, T., et al. “Hepatoprotective activity of polyphenolic compounds from Cynara scolymus against CCl₄ toxicity in isolated rat hepatocytes.” J. Nat. Prod. 1987; 50(4): 612–17.
Maros, T., et al. “Effects of Cynara scolymus extracts on the regeneration of rat liver. 1.” Arzneimittelforschung 1966; 16(2): 127–29.

Antioxidant & Cellular Protective Actions:
Li, H., et al. “Flavonoids from artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) up-regulate endothelial-type nitric-oxide synthase gene expression in human endothelial cells.” J. Pharmacol. Exp. Ther. 2004 Sep; 310(3): 926-32.
Stoev, S. D., et al. “Experimental mycotoxicosis in chickens induced by ochratoxin A and penicillic acid and intervention with natural plant extracts.” Vet. Res. Commun. 2004 Nov; 28(8): 727-46.
Jimenez-Escrig, A., et al. “In vitro antioxidant activities of edible artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and effect on biomarkers of antioxidants in rats.” J. Agric. Food Chem. 2003 Aug; 51(18): 5540-5.
Wang, M., et al. “Analysis of antioxidative phenolic compounds in artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.).” J. Agric. Food Chem. 2003 Jan; 51(3): 601-8.
Llorach, R., et al. “Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) byproducts as a potential source of health-promoting antioxidant phenolics.” J. Agric. Food Chem. 2002 Jun; 50(12): 3458-64.
Cervellati, R., et al. “Evaluation of antioxidant activity of some natural polyphenolic compounds using the Briggs-Rauscher reaction method.” J. Agric. Food Chem. 2002 Dec; 50(26): 7504-9.
Zapolska-Downar, D., et al. “Protective properties of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) against oxidative stress induced in cultured endothelial cells and monocytes.” Life Sci. 2002; 71(24): 2897.
Perez-Garcia, F., et al. “Activity of artichoke leaf extract on reactive oxygen in human leukocytes.” Free Rad. Res. 2000; 33(5): 661–65.
Gebhardt, R., et al. “Antioxidative and protective properties of extracts from leaves of the artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) against hydroperoxide-induced oxidative stress in cultured rat hepatocytes.” Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 1997; 144(2): 279–86.

Antimicrobial Actions:
Yang, B., et al. "Metabolic profile of 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid in rats, an in vivo and in vitro study." Drug Metab. Dispos. 2005; 33(7): 930-6.
Zhu, X. F., et al. “effects against harmful organisms activity of Cynara scolymus L. extracts.” Fitoterapia. 2005 ; 76(1): 108-11.
Zhu, X., et al. “Phenolic compounds from the leaf extract of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and their antimicrobial activities.” J. Agric. Food Chem. 2004 Dec; 52(24): 7272-8.