Other names: Cynara scolymus

Artichoke is a plant native to southern Europe, North Africa and the Canary islands.

Artichoke is a food. It’s also available in some health food stores and online as a liquid extract or in capsule form.

Why People Use Artichoke

Artichoke is approved by Germany’s Commission E for liver and gallbladder complaints. It appears to stimulate the flow of bile.

High Cholesterol

Artichoke extracts are thought to help decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels, although it hasn’t been proven in human studies.

Indigestion

Side Effects and Safety Concerns

Artichoke is thought to stimulate the flow of bile, so supplements shouldn’t be used if there is a known or suspected blockage of the bile duct.

Artichoke supplements should be avoided by people with gallstones, unless under the supervision of a qualified health profession, due to the risk of gallstones getting stuck in the bile duct.