The plant originates from the Mediterranean. Since ancient times, it has been used in the treatment of liver illness.
Artichoke contains several immunostimulatory bitter substances, such as cynarin and cynaropicrin.
Key words
Stimulates appetite, promotes digestion, stimulates the function of the liver and promotes the production of bile, reduces levels of blood cholesterol and blood sugar, and has detoxifying effects.
Artichoke can be used as an acute remedy against nausea, bloatedness, and stomach ache after eating food. In sufferings of more chronic character such as elevated levels of triglycerids in the blood, the remedy should be taken 3 times a day for at least 6 weeks.
Precautions
Never use herbal medicine if you suspect you might have symptoms that should be clarified by a doctor.
If you do not experience any improvements within the expected time, you should seek professional assistance.
Contraindications
Should not be used therapeutically during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Should not be used in case of blocked biliary passages as in gallstones as this can provoke colic-like pains. Should neither be used by people suffering from allergy towards artichoke or towards plants of the composites.
Side effects
There are no known side effects when using artichoke preparations in the recommended dosages, but consumption of large amounts can cause cessation of the production of breast milk.
Dosage
1:2-extract: 2 - 4 ml. a day.
Standardized extract of leaves: Approx. 300 - 600 mg. 3 times a day.
Unmanufactured dried leaves: 1 - 4 g. 3 times a day.
Acute remedy:
Take 300 - 600 mg. of standardized extract ½ hour before and after a meal.
Chronic illness:
To be taken 3 times a day for at least 6 weeks.
