Overview
Artichoke extract (Cynara scolymus), particularly from the leaf, has been studied for its hepatoprotective, lipid-lowering, and antioxidant properties. Clinical and experimental studies support its role in improving liver function by enhancing bile flow, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting hepatocytes [5][10]. It demonstrates significant antioxidant activity, which contributes to its protective effects against hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [10][5]. Artichoke leaf extract (ALE) also shows modest efficacy in reducing LDL-cholesterol and total cholesterol, likely through inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, similar to statins [9][6][8]. Additionally, a meta-analysis of clinical trials indicates a small but significant reduction in waist circumference, suggesting potential benefits in metabolic health, though no consistent effects on body weight or BMI were observed [3]. Despite promising preclinical data, a pilot study in chronic hepatitis C patients found no significant improvement in liver enzymes after 12 weeks of supplementation [7].
Dosage Guide
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Ensures consistent levels of active compounds like cynarin and chlorogenic acid
Alternative form for enhanced bioavailability or traditional use
Clinical Notes
- Generally well-tolerated, but may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas or bloating.
- Contraindicated in individuals with bile duct obstruction or gallstones without medical supervision.
- Potential interaction with cholesterol-lowering medications due to additive effects; monitor lipid levels.
- Limited evidence in viral hepatitis; should not replace standard antiviral therapy.
- Ensure product standardization for reliable dosing of active constituents like chlorogenic acid and cynarin.
Research
Artichoke extract showed protective effects on gonadal tissue in cadmium-treated rats, possibly linked to nitric oxide modulation.
A supplement combining artichoke leaf extract, red yeast rice, and policosanols significantly reduced LDL-cholesterol in hypercholesterolemic subjects over 16 weeks.
Meta-analysis found artichoke supplementation significantly reduced waist circumference by 1.11 cm but not other anthropometric measures.
Artichoke leaf extract demonstrated hepatoprotective effects in rats with hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury, improving antioxidant status and histopathology.
Review confirms antioxidant, choleretic, hepatoprotective, and lipid-lowering effects of artichoke leaf extract, supporting traditional use.
Review reports artichoke leaf extract reduces LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, with no strong evidence for HDL increase.
12-week supplementation with 3200 mg/day artichoke leaf extract did not normalize ALT levels in chronic hepatitis C patients.
Egyptian artichoke leaf extract reduced cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL in hypercholesterolemic rats and inhibited HMG-CoA reductase.
Combination supplement with artichoke extract significantly lowered LDL-C compared to placebo in a 16-week RCT.
Artichoke leaf extract improved antioxidant enzyme activity and reduced inflammation in liver injury models.
