Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) has a longstanding place in both traditional European medicine and modern phytotherapy for supporting hepatic (liver) health. Scientifically, the leaf extract is most often studied and is thought to act through several mechanisms, including stimulation of bile flow (choleresis), antioxidant activity, and potential liver cell protection.

Several clinical studies support the use of artichoke leaf extract for mild dyspeptic complaints, some of which are attributed to sluggish bile production. A 2003 double-blind placebo-controlled trial (Bundy et al., 2003) found that artichoke leaf extract improved symptoms in patients with functional dyspepsia, many of whom had underlying hepatic or biliary dysfunction. Additionally, in vitro and animal studies have shown that compounds such as cynarin and chlorogenic acid in artichoke can protect liver cells from oxidative stress and toxins.

However, high-quality evidence specifically for liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis) in humans is limited. Most clinical trials have focused on surrogate outcomes like bile flow or liver enzyme normalization rather than hard clinical endpoints. Systematic reviews (e.g., Walker et al., 2011) conclude that while there is promising evidence for hepatic function support and dyspepsia, more rigorous human trials are needed.

In summary, artichoke is scientifically validated to a moderate degree for supporting hepatic function, especially in mild functional complaints, but more research is required for its use in overt liver disease.

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