Artichoke

Cynara scolymus

Common names: Artichoke, Globe artichoke, Green Artichoke, French Artichoke

Family: Asteraceae

Parts used: Leaves, ideally just before flowering.

Habitat: Tall perennial rosette plant, native to the Mediterranean and now widely cultivated as a food and medicinal plant. 

Constituents: Sesquiterpene lactones (0.5-4%), mainly guaianolides. Phenolic acids (up to 2%) mainly mono- and di-caffeoylquinic acids. Flavonoids (0.1-1%) largely luteolin, cynaroside and apigenin derivatives. 

Actions: Choleretic, Cholagogue, Hepatoprotective, Diuretic, Liver Trophorestorative, Hypolipidaemic. 

History and Folklore: The botanical name seems to originate from a rather unlucky woman named Cynara in an ancient Greek myth; after a brief affair with Zeus she was cast aside and turned into an artichoke.

Traditional and current uses:

• Cardiovascular system: hyperlipidaemia, obesity, mild odema, arteriosclerosis

• Gastro-intestinal tract: dyspepsia, cholelithiasis, nausea, liver disease, chronic constipation, anorexia, hepatitis

• Urinary tract: mild renal insufficiency

• Musculskeletal system: arthritis, gout

•  Skin: as an internal adjunct to various skin treatments

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.