Artichoke extract
Content by: OpenSupplement Editorial Team | Medical review: pending | Last updated: April 13, 2026
TL;DR
Leaf extract from globe artichoke containing cynarin and chlorogenic acid compounds
Sahebkar meta-analysis shows consistent LDL cholesterol reductions of 15-20%
Works by stimulating bile production and providing antioxidant hepatic protection
Excellent safety with rare allergic reactions only in Asteraceae-sensitive individuals
Monthly cost: $10-18 for standardized leaf extracts
Best for: mild hypercholesterolemia, sluggish digestion, elevated liver enzymes, NAFLD support
What it is
Artichoke extract comes from the leaves of Cynara scolymus — the same plant that produces the familiar globe artichokes eaten as vegetables. The leaves contain higher concentrations of bioactive compounds than the edible flower buds, particularly cynarin and chlorogenic acid, which provide the therapeutic effects.
The extract works primarily by stimulating bile production and flow (choleretic effect), which helps with fat digestion and cholesterol elimination. It also provides hepatoprotective effects through antioxidant mechanisms. Mediterranean cultures have used artichoke leaves for centuries to support liver and digestive health — a traditional use now supported by modern clinical research. Standardization typically focuses on total phenolic content or specific cynarin levels.
What the research says
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Panahi's double-blind RCT specifically in NAFLD patients showed significant improvements in ALT and AST liver enzymes after 8 weeks of artichoke extract supplementation [1]. The choleretic effects help improve fat metabolism and may reduce liver fat accumulation, though more research is needed to confirm imaging improvements.
General Liver Support Traditional use as a choleretic (bile stimulant) is well-supported by clinical evidence. The extract helps optimize bile production and flow, which supports overall liver function and fat digestion. This makes it particularly useful for people experiencing sluggish digestion or those with mildly elevated liver enzymes. Effects are generally modest but consistent across studies.
Cholesterol Management Sahebkar's systematic review and meta-analysis provides the strongest evidence for artichoke extract's lipid-lowering effects [2]. Across multiple trials, the extract consistently reduces LDL cholesterol by 15-20% and total cholesterol by similar amounts. Bundy's well-designed RCT showed an impressive 18.5% LDL reduction in otherwise healthy adults with elevated cholesterol [3].
Blood Sugar Effects Some studies suggest modest blood glucose improvements, though this is less well-established than the cholesterol effects. The chlorogenic acid content may contribute to improved glucose metabolism, but more research is needed to confirm clinically significant benefits.
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Artichoke extract on Amazon
Safety
Artichoke extract has an excellent safety profile with very few reported adverse effects. The most significant concern is potential allergic reactions in people sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies), though this is rare. Some users may experience mild digestive upset when starting supplementation.
The extract's bile-stimulating effects mean it should not be used by people with bile duct obstruction or gallstones, as it could potentially worsen these conditions. Otherwise, it's well-tolerated even with long-term use.
Interactions
Bile duct obstruction or gallstones — Contraindicated due to choleretic effects that could worsen blockages (significant)
Anticoagulant medications — Theoretical interaction, monitor if combining with warfarin (minor)
Diabetes medications — May enhance blood sugar-lowering effects slightly, monitor glucose (minor)
Cholesterol medications — May provide additive cholesterol-lowering effects, which could be beneficial but should be monitored (minor to moderate)
Dosing
For cholesterol management: 600-1200 mg daily of standardized leaf extract, typically divided into 2-3 doses with meals. Studies showing cholesterol benefits typically use this range.
For liver support: 600-1000 mg daily, taken with meals to optimize absorption and reduce any digestive upset.
Timing: Take with meals, particularly those containing fats, to maximize the choleretic effects and improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Standardization: Look for extracts standardized to total phenolic content (5-10%) or cynarin content (2.5-5%), as these match clinical study preparations.
Cost
Quality artichoke leaf extracts typically cost $10-18 per month for therapeutic doses. The supplement is moderately priced compared to other botanicals, with good availability from multiple manufacturers. Standardized extracts cost slightly more than generic preparations but provide more predictable potency. Combination products with other liver-support herbs may cost $15-25 monthly but don't necessarily provide additional benefits over artichoke alone.
The bottom line
Artichoke extract offers solid evidence for modest cholesterol reduction and liver enzyme improvement, making it a reasonable choice for people with mild hypercholesterolemia or sluggish liver function. The traditional choleretic effects are well-validated by modern research, and the safety profile is excellent. However, benefits are generally modest — expect 15-20% cholesterol reductions rather than dramatic changes. It works well as part of a comprehensive approach including diet and lifestyle changes, but isn't powerful enough as a standalone treatment for significant metabolic issues.
References
- Panahi Y, Kianpour P, Mohtashami R, et al. Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2018;32(7):1382-1387.
- Sahebkar A, Pirro M, Banach M, et al. Lipid-lowering activity of artichoke extracts: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2018;58(15):2549-2556.
- Bundy R, Walker AF, Middleton RW, et al. Artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus) reduces plasma cholesterol in otherwise healthy hypercholesterolemic adults: a randomized, double blind placebo controlled trial. Phytomedicine. 2008;15(9):668-675.
Sources for this page include published meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and NIH dietary supplement fact sheets. All claims reflect the evidence as of early 2026.
This is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.