Artichoke
Cas No.: 30964-13-7
What is an artichoke?
Artichoke (yucca thistle, artichoke, French lily, lotus lily, Spanish artichoke, garden artichoke, artichoke, artichoke proper) is a plant of the asteraceae family, cultivated for thousands of years. Artichoke extract is used in medicine. It is rich in such compounds as:
– chlorogenic acid
– flavonoids
– cynarin
– sesquiterpene lactones
In addition, the plant is a rich source of numerous vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, A and C, zinc, iron, copper and calcium. Artichoke has a choleretic effect, so people with liver problems can reach for it. In addition, the product is dedicated to those who want to take care of a healthy heart.
Uses of artichoke extract
Artichoke can be used to maintain a normal blood lipid profile and minimize the risk of developing hypertension or atherosclerosis. Artichoke extract is excellent for supporting liver function, as well as relieving dyspeptic symptoms (heartburn, nausea, belching). The product has a protective effect on liver cells by protecting them from free radicals, as well as potentially Hepatotoxic compounds. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, the extract can help treat certain skin diseases (psoriasis, urticaria, eczema).
Mechanism of action
Artichoke stimulates bile secretion and promotes the accumulation of bile acids in the intestinal lumen. Since bile acids are synthesized in the liver from cholesterol, increased bile secretion is accompanied by a reduction in cholesterol levels. This hypolipemic effect of artichoke extract translates into a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. In addition, the vegetable can increase nitric oxide, a compound that dilates blood vessels. Another mechanism of action of artichoke involves reducing the oxidation of LDL particles and the formation of atherosclerotic oxLDL particles.
The luteolins in artichoke inhibit the activity of the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme – thus it can mimic the effects of potency-enhancing drugs in men.
Artichoke extract exhibits comprehensive antifungal and antibacterial activity, m. in. Against such microorganisms as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans, Aspergillus Niger.
Artichoke – dosage of the extract
The recommended dosage of artichoke is 320 mg three times a day. In order to increase the beneficial effects on the liver, you can combine artichoke supplementation with the intake of supplements containing milk thistle and Chinese citronella.
References:
- Adzet T, Camarasa J, Laguna JC. Hepatoprotective activity of polyphenolic compounds from Cynara scolymus against CCl4 toxicity in isolated rat hepatocytes. J Nat Prod. 1987 Jul-Aug;50(4):612-7; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3430163/
- Saénz Rodriguez T, García Giménez D, de la Puerta Vázquez R. Choleretic activity and biliary elimination of lipids and bile acids induced by an artichoke leaf extract in rats. Phytomedicine. 2002 Dec;9(8):687-93; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12587687/
- Lupattelli G, Marchesi S, Lombardini R, Roscini AR, Trinca F, Gemelli F, Vaudo G, Mannarino E. Artichoke juice improves endothelial function in hyperlipemia. Life Sci. 2004 Dec 31;76(7):775-82; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15581909/
- Negro D, Montesano V, Grieco S, Crupi P, Sarli G, De Lisi A, Sonnante G. Polyphenol compounds in artichoke plant tissues and varieties. J Food Sci. 2012 Feb;77(2):C244-52; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22251096/
