Cynara cardunculus
Artichoke Leaf
Asteraceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Artichoke Leaf
- Scientific name
- Cynara cardunculus
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Region
- Mediterranean
- Plant part
- Leaves
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Moderate
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A tall thistle-like perennial with large deeply lobed grey-green arching leaves and large edible flower buds with overlapping pointed green bracts and a purple thistle-like center; the leaves are the part used in herbal tea.
Also known as: Globe Artichoke, Cynara, Alcachofa
Historical Background
Artichoke has been a prized food and bitter digestive of Mediterranean cultures since Greek and Roman times. Its large grey-green leaves brew a gentle, liver-supporting tea long valued for digestion and cholesterol traditions.
Earliest recorded uses: Mediterranean food and medicine for millennia; liver and digestive leaf traditions since Greek and Roman times.
Traditional preparations:
- Leaf infusion
- Digestive bitter tea
- Liver-support blend with milk thistle
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Traditional European Herbalism
Bitter digestive and liver-support leaf tea.
Modern Herbalism
Digestive and cholesterol-tradition tea.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Mild, slightly bitter, green, earthy
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Artichoke leaf has moderate evidence for mild cholesterol and digestive support; cynarin and luteolin are active. It is not a treatment for high cholesterol, liver disease, IBS, or any disease; discuss with a clinician given drug interactions.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026