Artichoke has been used in traditional medicine for centuries as a specific liver and gallbladder remedy.* In Brazilian herbal medicine systems, leaf preparations are used for liver and gallbladder problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, anemia, diarrhea (and elimination in general), fevers, ulcers, and gout.* To see photographs of artichoke, click here. For more information about artichoke (Cynara scolymus), please refer to the Database File for Artichoke in the Tropical Plant Database.
Suggested Use: 60 drops (2 ml) 2 or more times daily or as desired.
Contraindications: None reported.
Drug Interactions: May enhance the effect of cholesterol-reducing drugs.
Artichoke Plant Summary
Main Preparation Method: capsules and fluid extracts
Main Actions (in order): liver and gallbladder bile stimulant, hepatoprotective (liver protector), antihepatotoxic (liver detoxifier), hypocholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol)
Main Uses:
1. for gallstones and as a liver and gallbladder bile stimulant
2. for high cholesterol
3. for digestive disorders
4. for irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and other bowel problems
5. to support liver function
Properties/Actions Documented by Research: antihepatotoxic (clears toxins in liver), antioxidant, liver and gallbladder bile stimulator, hepatoprotective (liver protector), hepatotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the liver), hypocholesterolemic (lowers cholesterol)
Other Properties/Actions Documented by Traditional Use: astringent, blood cleanser, cardiotonic (tones, balances, strengthens the heart), detoxifier, digestive stimulant, diuretic, hypotensive (lowers blood pressure), stimulant, tonic (tones, balances, strengthens)
Cautions: none
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