Natural Products

Artichoke

Cynara scolymus

Efficacy

• Indications with proven efficacy:
  None
• Indications with possible, but poorly documented efficacy - the use of this product cannot be recommended:
  Cholesterol and other lipids reduction
  Digestive problems (dyspepsia)
  Irritable bowel syndrome
• Also used for these other indications, but with no proof of efficacy:
  Mild diuretic
  Mild hypoglycemic

Security

• Risk of Drug Interactions: Low
• Adverse Effects: Rare

What is it?

Artichoke is an edible plant, up to 1,5 meters high, found in the Mediterranean region. Its very characteristic flower is edible. Artichoke was cultivated by the Greeks and Roman who appreciated its medicinal virtues. Today, it is largely available and prepared in a number of ways. It is considered a delicate dish.

Artichoke contains several polyphenolic substances, flavonoids and glycosides. Its effect on the liver is mainly attributed to its cynarine content. It is regarded as highly effective in the treatment of biliary disorders, nausea and indigestion.

Warning

In 2004, Canada adopted new regulations that control the manufacturing, packaging, labeling and importing of natural health products. The new regulations also include an adverse reaction reporting system. Products that conform to the regulation's criteria are identified with a natural product number (NPN) or homeopathic medicine number (DIN-HM) and can be legally sold in Canada. This number indicates that the product meets specific criteria for safety and purity, not that it is effective for any indication.

Medicinal plants content varies naturally from plant to plant – just as fruits from the same package may vary in taste and texture. There is no standard to measure the active content of each plant. Thus, efficacy of natural products should be expected to vary from brand to brand as well as from bottle to bottle of the same brand.

For more information about the Natural Health Products Regulations, or to check if a product has been assessed, visit the Health Canada website at http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodnatur/index-eng.php.

Does it work?

There is no evidence that artichoke is effective in any indication. However it is used to treat certain medical conditions in which it may be of some benefit:

• Digestive problems (dyspepsia):
  Artichoke may be somewhat effective in the above indication. The recommended dose is 1 to 4 grams of leaves, stem or root, 3 times a day. A typical dose of artichoke leaves is 6 grams daily. Improvement can take up tu 8 weeks of treatment.
• Irritable bowel syndrome:
  There is some evidence that leaf extract can reduce abdominal pain and cramping, bloating, flatulence and constipation associated with irritable bowel syndrome after 6 weeks treatment. The dose used is 640 mg 3 times a day.
• To reduce cholesterol and lipid levels:
  Artichoke may have a mild effect in above indication. However, its efficacy has not been established. The dose used is 1800 mg to 3600 mg of dry leaf extract a day.

There is insufficient reliable information to conclude that artichoke is effective in any other indication.

Is it safe?

• Artichoke is not associated with any specific toxicity. There has been no report of any particular adverse effect. However, it may cause an allergic reaction in some people, especially those who are allergic to ragweed or daisies…
• Artichoke is contraindicated in people with duct obstruction and should be used with extreme caution if the individual has gallstones (biliary lithiasis) . The product appears to be safe during pregnancy and breast-feeding, but it should be used in moderation.

Clinical notes

• Artichoke has been used for centuries. It has choleretic, diuretic and hypolipidemic properties. Because of its choleretic effect, it is useful in the treatment of digestive problems.

References

1. Blumethal M et al. The Complete German Commission E monographs, 1998
2. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2007
3. Lininger S. et Al. The Natural Pharmacy, Prima Health, 1998
4. Facts & Comparisons, The Lawrence review of natural products, 1998
5. Passeportsanté.net. Artichaut. http://www.passeportsante.net
6. Barnes J. et Al. Herbal Medicines, 2nd edition, Pharmaceutical Press, 2002