Scientific name
Cynara scolymus L., syn. Cynara cardunculus L.Family
Asteraceae (Compositae)Origin
Plant grown everywhere as a vegetable.Parts Used
The drug consists of the leaves, present in Official Pharmacopoeia.Chemical constituents
- Caffeylquinic compounds (cynarin);
- Flavonoids (luteolin);
- Tannins;
- Sterols;
- Polyacetylenes;
- Sesquiterpene lactones (cinaropicrin);
- Mineral salts;
- Organic acids.
Artichoke in Herbalist: Properties of the Artichoke
The artichoke is a plant with numerous pharmacological properties; among the main activities are mentioned those antioxidant, hepatoprotective, choleretic, cholagogue and antilipidemic.
In the form of standardized flavonoid extracts and caffeic acid derivatives, artichoke is used as a choleretic, diuretic and lipid-lowering agent.
It also has a slightly laxative and purifying action.
