Sendara
Also known as: Artichoke, Sendara, Cynara scolymus
Overview
Cynara scolymus, commonly known as artichoke, is a botanical dietary supplement primarily derived from the plant's leaf extracts. It is widely utilized for its potential benefits in liver support, improvement of lipid metabolism, and overall digestive health. The supplement's efficacy is attributed to its rich composition of bioactive compounds, including cynarin, various flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Research on artichoke supplementation is well-established, with a considerable body of clinical trials and systematic reviews supporting its uses. The quality of evidence for its effects, particularly in modulating liver enzymes and improving lipid profiles, ranges from moderate to high, making it a recognized herbal extract in the field of nutritional supplementation. While 'Sendara' is not a direct scientific name, the context suggests it refers to or is synonymous with artichoke extract.
Benefits
Artichoke supplementation offers several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 clinical trials demonstrated that it significantly reduces liver enzymes AST and ALT, particularly in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and overweight/obese subjects, indicating improved liver function. This effect was statistically significant (p=0.001 for AST, p=0.016 for ALT). Another systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis indicated that *Cynara scolymus* supplementation can positively influence anthropometric indices such as body weight and BMI, suggesting a potential role in weight management. Furthermore, a meta-analysis on nutritional supplements, including artichoke-related compounds, showed a statistically significant improvement in post-exercise fatigue recovery (overall effect size 0.269, p=0.022), although study heterogeneity was noted. These benefits are most pronounced in populations with liver dysfunction, such as NAFLD patients, and in overweight or obese individuals.
How it works
Artichoke extracts exert their therapeutic effects primarily through their rich content of antioxidants and compounds that stimulate bile production. This enhanced bile flow aids in the digestion of lipids and supports the liver's detoxification processes. The observed reduction in liver enzymes suggests a hepatoprotective action, likely mediated by the antioxidant properties of the extract and its ability to modulate liver metabolism. Bioactive compounds like cynarin are thought to play a crucial role by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and improving overall lipid profiles. The absorption and bioavailability of artichoke compounds vary depending on the specific extract formulation, but clinical trials generally indicate adequate systemic effects to produce the observed health benefits.
Side effects
Artichoke supplementation is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse effects. The most commonly reported side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating and gas. No significant drug interactions have been consistently reported in the reviewed studies. However, individuals with pre-existing conditions, particularly gallstones, should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using artichoke supplements. This is due to its choleretic effect, which stimulates bile production and could potentially exacerbate symptoms in those with gallstone issues. There are no other major contraindications noted, and serious adverse events are rare. Long-term safety data beyond 12 weeks is limited, suggesting a need for further research on prolonged use.
Dosage
Effective dosages of artichoke leaf extract in clinical trials typically range from 320 mg to 1800 mg per day. The optimal dosage can vary depending on the specific extract standardization and the intended health benefit. However, a common daily dosage for general use is between 500 mg and 1000 mg. Timing of supplementation relative to meals may influence absorption and efficacy, with some suggesting administration with food. While there is no established maximum safe dose, dosages exceeding 1800 mg per day have not been extensively studied in clinical trials, and caution is advised. Users should adhere to product-specific recommendations or consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing advice.
FAQs
Is Sendara the same as artichoke?
Based on the available research, 'Sendara' appears to be a name used for or related to *Cynara scolymus*, which is the scientific name for artichoke. The benefits and mechanisms discussed align with artichoke extract.
How long does it take to see benefits from artichoke supplementation?
Improvements in liver enzymes and changes in anthropometric indices, such as body weight and BMI, are typically observed within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent artichoke supplementation.
Is artichoke supplementation safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports the safety of artichoke supplementation for up to 12 weeks. Data on longer-term use are limited, so it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for extended periods.
Does artichoke help with weight loss?
Some research indicates that artichoke supplementation can lead to modest reductions in body weight and BMI. While it may contribute to weight management, its effects are generally considered moderate.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1567438/full – This meta-analysis, published in Frontiers in Nutrition, investigated the impact of nutritional supplements, including artichoke-related compounds, on post-exercise fatigue recovery. It found a statistically significant improvement in recovery (effect size 0.269, p=0.022), though noted heterogeneity among studies, suggesting variable effects depending on specific timing and population characteristics.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33197674/ – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis, published in PubMed, examined the effects of *Cynara scolymus* supplementation on anthropometric indices. It concluded that artichoke supplementation significantly improved body weight and BMI, indicating potential benefits for weight management. The study highlighted heterogeneity in doses and populations as a limitation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34383355/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, available via PubMed, focused on the impact of artichoke supplementation on liver enzymes. It pooled data from 8 randomized controlled trials and found significant reductions in AST (p=0.001) and ALT (p=0.016), particularly in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), supporting its hepatoprotective effects. The study utilized robust statistical models and assessed publication bias.
