Herbal Information

Artichoke is stated to possess diuretic, choleretic, hypocholesterolaemic, hypolipidaemic, and hepato stimulating properties. Modern use of artichoke is focused on its use in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, hyperlipoproteinaemia, non–ulcer dyspepsia and conditions requiring an increase in choleresis. There is also interest in the potential hepatoprotective properties of globe artichoke, although this has not yet been tested in controlled clinical trials.

Pharmacological Properties

Several pharmacological properties have been documented for artichoke leaf, including inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis, hypolipidaemic, anti oxidant and hepatoprotective activity. It remains unclear which of the constituents of artichoke are responsible for its pharmacological activities. The dicaffeoylquinic acids, which include cynarin, are likely to be an important group of constituents in this respect. The sesquiterpene lactones, such as cynaropicrin, and flavonoids, such as luteolin glycoside, may also exert biological effects.