Organic Artichoke [Leaf] 4:1 Extract
Also known as: Artichoke leaf extract, globe artichoke extract, Cynara scolymus
Overview
Artichoke leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the globe artichoke plant, *Cynara scolymus*. It is commonly available as a 4:1 extract, indicating a concentration ratio of raw leaf to extract. This botanical dietary supplement is primarily utilized for its potential to improve lipid profiles, support liver health, and enhance digestive function. Its key characteristics include potent antioxidant properties, the ability to stimulate bile production, and the presence of inulin, a prebiotic fiber. Research on artichoke leaf extract is moderately mature, with several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews supporting its efficacy, particularly for lipid-lowering effects. The evidence quality for these benefits is generally moderate to high, while data for liver and digestive benefits are emerging but less definitive.
Benefits
Artichoke leaf extract offers several evidence-based benefits. It significantly improves lipid profiles, with systematic reviews and meta-analyses of over 700 participants showing reductions in triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C by approximately 17 mg/dL each (p < 0.05), without affecting HDL-C. These reductions are clinically relevant for cardiovascular risk management. For liver health, a 2018 randomized controlled trial involving 90 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) demonstrated improved liver function after 600 mg daily for two months, suggesting hepatoprotective effects by reducing inflammation and promoting bile production. Digestive health benefits are also noted, primarily due to its inulin content acting as a prebiotic, which improves gut microbiota. Some evidence, often from studies combining artichoke with other herbs, suggests relief from indigestion symptoms like bloating and nausea. Lipid improvements are typically observed within 4 to 8 weeks, while liver and digestive benefits have been reported in trials lasting two months or less.
How it works
Artichoke leaf extract exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis, which contributes to its lipid-lowering properties. The extract also stimulates the production and secretion of bile, aiding in fat digestion and supporting liver detoxification processes. Its rich content of antioxidant flavonoids helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in both liver and vascular tissues. Additionally, the presence of inulin, a prebiotic fiber, promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby contributing to improved digestive health. Bioavailability can vary, but standardized extracts are preferred to ensure consistent dosing of active compounds.
Side effects
Artichoke leaf extract is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, or nausea. Uncommon side effects, occurring in 1-5% of individuals, include allergic reactions, particularly in those sensitive to plants belonging to the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, marigolds, daisies). Rare side effects, affecting less than 1% of users, may include hypersensitivity reactions, headaches, or dizziness. While no significant drug interactions have been definitively reported, caution is advised when co-administering with bile acid sequestrants or other cholesterol-lowering medications due to potential additive effects. Contraindications include known allergy to artichoke or related plants, and bile duct obstruction. Safety data for special populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, are insufficient, and its use is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for lipid lowering with standardized artichoke leaf extract is approximately 500 mg per day. Optimal doses observed in randomized controlled trials typically range from 500 to 1,800 mg daily, often divided into two doses. While a maximum safe dose has not been firmly established, doses up to 2,700 mg per day have been used in studies without serious adverse effects. It is generally recommended to take artichoke leaf extract with meals to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort. For consistent efficacy, extracts standardized for active compounds like cynarin or total flavonoid content are preferred. Co-administration with food may enhance absorption, but no specific cofactors are required.
FAQs
Is artichoke leaf extract effective for cholesterol?
Yes, meta-analyses confirm significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides, making it effective for improving lipid profiles.
Can it improve liver health?
Preliminary evidence suggests benefits in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and reduced liver enzymes, but more large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed for conclusive evidence.
Are there side effects?
Mostly mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating or nausea. Serious adverse effects are rare, but allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals.
How long does it take to see results?
Lipid improvements are typically observed within 4-8 weeks, while liver and digestive benefits may become apparent within 1-2 months of consistent use.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Limited long-term safety data exist, but short- to medium-term use (up to a few months) appears safe based on current research.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34569671/ – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of 14 RCTs (n > 700) found that artichoke leaf extract significantly reduced triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL-C by approximately 17 mg/dL each, with a dose-response relationship identified. It provides high-quality evidence for lipid-lowering effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28609140/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (n=702) confirmed the lipid-lowering effects of artichoke leaf extract, showing a weighted mean difference of -17.6 mg/dL for total cholesterol, along with reductions in LDL-C and triglycerides. It highlights the extract's efficacy in hyperlipidemia.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.7247 – This source, likely related to the Shahinfar et al., 2021 meta-analysis, supports the significant reductions in TG, TC, and LDL-C observed with artichoke leaf extract, emphasizing its role in improving lipid profiles. It contributes to the high-quality evidence base for this benefit.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/artichoke-benefits – This article mentions a 2018 RCT with 90 NAFLD patients showing improved liver function after 600 mg daily for 2 months. It suggests potential hepatoprotective effects, though it's a single trial and needs replication for stronger evidence.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-842/artichoke – This source provides general information on artichoke, including its use for indigestion symptoms. It notes that digestive benefits are often observed when combined with other herbs, indicating plausible but less quantified effects in standalone RCTs.
