Artichoke

What Is Artichoke Extract?

Did you know that artichokes (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) are the unbloomed flowers or flower buds of the artichoke plant? Indeed, artichokes, also called globe or French artichokes, are perennial plants belonging to the thistle family in the genus Cynara and are native to the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands. And interestingly, artichoke extract is a great remedy for digestion.

They are cousins to chrysanthemums, dahlias, and sunflowers. There are an estimated 140 different artichoke varieties, though only about 40 are grown and sold for culinary and medicinal use.

Artichokes are incredibly nutritious, low in fat, rich in fibre, and supply ample amounts of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Most notably, artichokes are high in folate, vitamin C, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron.

Artichoke Extracts And Digestion

Beyond being delicious, artichokes and artichoke extracts have long been prized for their impressive digestive health benefits. Indeed, because they are a great source of fibre and naturally occurring prebiotics and probiotics, they significantly impact the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiota, leading to improved immunity, digestion, and nutrient absorption. Artichokes and artichoke extracts are also great at alleviating GI symptoms such as bloating, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. 

Moreover, the phenolic acids in artichokes, such as caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, have been found to help stimulate the production of bile, which is essential for the digestion of fats. Last but by no means least, artichokes are rich in a unique compound called silymarin, which is one of the most powerful hepatoprotective compounds in the plant family, so artichoke extract supports, as well as protects, and can even help regenerate liver cells. 

Benefits of Artichoke Extract

• Detoxifies The Liver/Protects The Liver
• Digestive Bitter
• Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
• Lowers Cholesterol/Optimize Lipid Profiles
• Promotes Optimal Digestive Health
• Supports Liver Function

Artichoke – Forms, Formats, and Potency

Artichokes can be consumed in their delicious natural and nutritious food form. They are also available as artichoke leaf extracts in myriad supplemental forms, including liquids, drops, drinkable ampoules, capsules, and powder. The potency can range from product to product but is usually in the 300 to 650 mg range. The recommended daily dose is generally between 900 and 1900 mg, to be taken in divided doses.

Final Thoughts On Artichoke

Artichoke leaf extract is well tolerated and causes few potential side effects. However, those suffering from a bile duct obstruction or at risk of bile duct obstruction, and people with a history of gallbladder attacks, should refrain from using artichoke extract.

Also noteworthy, artichokes may cause an allergic reaction in those allergic to the ragweed family of plants.