Asteraceae
Globe Artichoke
Cynara cardunculus
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Mediterranean
Also known as: Cardoon, Artichoke Thistle, Wild Artichoke
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Parts Used
Leaf
Therapeutic Uses
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), dyslipidemia (LDL reduction), biliary dysfunction, chronic constipation, IBS. Closely related to artichoke leaf (C. scolymus) with similar but broader properties.
Herbal Actions
Cholagogue, hepatoprotective, hypolipidemic, bitter tonic, antioxidant, prebiotic
Active Constituents
Cynarin, luteolin 7-O-glucoside, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, cynaroside, sesquiterpene lactones, inulin
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule☕ Herbal Tea
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried leaf per 250ml, steep 10 min, 3x daily before meals |
| Tincture | 4–6 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Essentially the same herb as C. scolymus with slight botanical difference. Often used interchangeably in clinical practice. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid in bile duct obstruction. Avoid in Asteraceae allergy. Stimulates bile production.
Side Effects: Flatulence. Allergic reactions. Generally very well tolerated.