artichoke

December 1, 2004 by Linda Lazarides
Filed under Herbal medicines

Artichoke

Herb

Extracts from the leaves of the globe artichoke have anti-toxic effects on the liver, similar to those of the herb extract silymarin. They can also promote regeneration of the liver and increase the blood supply to that organ. Artichoke leaf extracts can reduce blood cholesterol by increasing the excretion of cholesterol, but also appear directly to inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. The main use of artichoke leaf extract is against gall bladder disease, reducing pain, nausea and digestive discomfort, and stimulating gall-bladder drainage.