Artichoke Leaf and Powder Profile

Also known as

Cynara scolymus

Introduction

The artichoke is one of the world's oldest vegetables. It was first grown in eastern Africa and then made its way to Europe via Egypt. Images of artichokes are found on ancient Egyptian papyri and on sacrificial altars.

Constituents

Cynarin, beta-sitosterol, luteolin, stigmasterol.

Parts Used

Dried leaf, rather than the flowering buds eaten as a vegetable.

Typical Preparations

Powdered leaves made into a capsule, the dried leaf as a tea, in liquid extract form and the pressed juice of the fresh plant.

Summary

Precautions

Don't use artichoke leaf if you have gallstones. Safety in pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under the age of 12 has not been established.