Last verified: 17 days ago
Artichoke
Also known as: Cynara scolymus, Artichoke Leaf Extract, ALE, Jerusalem Artichoke, Helianthus tuberosus, Globe Artichoke
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Artichoke extract may support liver health and cholesterol levels, with moderate clinical evidence.
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What it does
Artichoke is a plant whose leaves and roots contain bioactive compounds — including cynarin, luteolin, and inulin — that have been studied for liver and metabolic health. Clinical trials suggest...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Artichoke is a plant whose leaves and roots contain bioactive compounds — including cynarin, luteolin, and inulin — that have been studied for liver and metabolic health. Clinical trials suggest artichoke leaf extract (ALE) can reduce liver fat (steatosis) and modestly improve cholesterol markers like LDL and triglycerides, especially when combined with other plant-based ingredients like bergamot. Jerusalem artichoke's inulin fiber acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and improving gut microbiome diversity, particularly in children with obesity.
What It Doesn't Do
Won't replace statins or prescription cholesterol drugs. A multi-ingredient supplement containing artichoke extract failed to lower LDL in one well-designed trial. No evidence it treats cancer in humans — lab studies on cancer cells don't translate to real-world treatment. Not a weight-loss solution on its own.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces liver fat and liver size in obese adults with fatty liver disease over 6 weeks.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Lowers LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides in adults with suboptimal cholesterol levels.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Inulin from Jerusalem artichoke increases beneficial gut bacteria diversity in children with obesity.
Moderate EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Artichoke leaf extract reduces oxidative stress and inflammation markers in liver injury models.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the studies. Polyphenol absorption varies widely by individual and formulation.
Red Flags to Watch For
- One clinical trial found artichoke leaf extract raised liver enzyme levels (AST) in obese patients — a potential hepatic stress signal that warrants monitoring
- Most positive cholesterol results come from combination products (artichoke + bergamot), making it hard to isolate artichoke's individual contribution
- Jerusalem artichoke tubers can accumulate heavy metals (cadmium, lead) depending on cultivar and soil — food safety varies by source
- Lab and animal studies on cancer are frequently misrepresented in marketing — no human cancer treatment evidence exists from the provided studies
Products Containing Artichoke
See how Artichoke is used in these analyzed products:
Physician's Choice Digestive Enzymes
Supplement
Texas SuperFood Original Capsules
Supplement
Micro Ingredients Liver Advanced+
Supplement
WonderGreens Veggie Gummies
Supplement
310 Chocolate Icing Shake
Supplement
NOW Detox Cleanse 90ct
Supplement
Sunfood Organic Green Blend
Supplement
NutraBio Liver
Supplement
Nature's Craft Liver Support Gummies
Supplement
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Artichoke do?
Artichoke extract may support liver health and cholesterol levels, with moderate clinical evidence.
What is the effective dose of Artichoke?
No established dose from provided studies
Is Artichoke safe?
One clinical trial found artichoke leaf extract raised liver enzyme levels (AST) in obese patients — a potential hepatic stress signal that warrants monitoring
What doesn't Artichoke do?
Won't replace statins or prescription cholesterol drugs.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25