Artichoke

How does Artichoke work?

Artichoke has chemicals that can reduce nausea and vomiting, spasms, and intestinal gas. These chemicals have also been shown to lower cholesterol.

Are there safety concerns?

Artichoke is safe in the amounts used in foods. It might be safe when used as a medicine. In some people, artichoke can cause some side effects such as intestinal gas and allergic reactions. People at the greatest risk of allergic reactions are those who are allergic to plants such as marigolds, daisies, and other similar herbs.

Do not use artichoke if:

• You are pregnant or breast-feeding, except in amounts found in foods.
• You have a bile duct blockage.
• You have gallstones.
• You are allergic to marigolds, daisies, and other similar herbs.

Dosing considerations for Artichoke.

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

• For heartburn: 320-640 mg artichoke leaf extract three times daily. Some studies have used a specific extract called ALE LI 220 (HeparSL forte, Berlin, Germany).
• For high cholesterol: 1800-1920 mg per day of a specific artichoke extract (Valverde Artischocke, Novartis Consumer Health) in 2 to 3 divided doses. Products containing 60-1500 mg per day of the active ingredient, cynarin, have also been used.