Artichoke leaves and extracts from them are mainly taken to treat digestive problems. Specifically, the drug is suitable, for example, for the relief of flatulence and especially for disorders of bile flow, because the ingredients of artichoke leaves increase the flow of bile. However, in cases of biliary disorders, such as gallstones, the drug should be taken only after medical examination. Because artichoke leaves detoxify and have a protective effect on the liver, they are also taken to generally strengthen the liver.
Traditionally, artichoke has been used to support digestive function and for loss of appetite. According to experience and patient studies, the plant is also believed to lower blood fat and cholesterol levels, which is why it is used to treat elevated blood lipid levels (hyperlipidemia).
Application in folk medicine and homeopathy
In folk medicine, artichoke is used as a bile remedy and diuretic. In addition, the leaves are also used to treat high blood lipid levels and to protect the liver.
The homeopathic field of application includes in particular chronic liver-biliary disorders.
Artichoke and its ingredients
Artichoke leaves contain numerous phenolic carboxylic acids. These include caffeic acid, caffeoylquinic acid derivatives such as chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid, and dicaffeoylquinic acid derivatives such as cynarin. Other active compounds in the drug include bitter sesquiterpene lactones with cynaropicrin as the main component, and various flavonoids such as rutin and luteolin.
Artichoke: for what indication?
Artichoke is suitable for treatment in the following indications:
- Digestive problems
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Loss of appetite
- Disturbances of the biliary system
- Hyperlipidemia
- High blood lipid levels
