Artichoke Leaf
Cynara cardunculus (syn. C. scolymus)
T Traditional useArtichoke leaf is traditionally used for indigestion with fullness, bloating and wind; it must not be used with gallbladder disease.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes artichoke leaf as a traditional herbal medicine for indigestion with a feeling of fullness, bloating and wind. It must not be used with blocked bile ducts, gallstones or liver disease. The monograph has no indication for the liver or cholesterol.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for digestive complaints such as indigestion with fullness, bloating and wind. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 1.5 g of chopped dried leaf.
Amount: 4 times daily (3–6 g a day)
Duration limit: See a doctor if no better after 2 weeks
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 12 years
- Do not use with blocked or inflamed bile ducts, liver disease, gallstones or other bile problems needing medical care.
- Do not use if you are allergic to the daisy family (Asteraceae).
- Not recommended under 12. Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding because safety has not been shown.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Mild diarrhoea with cramps, nausea, heartburn
- Allergic reactions (frequency unknown)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Artichoke's digestive use comes from its leaves, not the flower head we eat. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is artichoke leaf good for the liver?
The EMA monograph has no liver indication, and it must not be used with liver or bile disease.
How do I make artichoke leaf tea?
Pour 150 ml of boiling water over 1.5 g of chopped leaf; drink 4 times a day.
Who should not use artichoke leaf?
People with gallstones, bile duct or liver disease, those allergic to the daisy family and children under 12.
Does artichoke leaf lower cholesterol?
The EMA monograph has no cholesterol indication.
Sources
- European Union herbal monograph on Cynara cardunculus L. (syn. Cynara scolymus L.), folium – Revision 1EMA HMPC · 2018
Cite This Page
Artichoke Leaf (Cynara cardunculus (syn. C. scolymus)). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/artichoke-leaf/
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