What Are the Benefits of Artichoke Leaf Extract?
As the name implies,
artichoke leaf extract is an extract taken from the leaves of artichokes. It comes in the form of a tablet, capsule, and as a liquid. It is a
dietary supplement used for a variety of different purposes. Specifically, artichoke leaf extract is claimed to be beneficial when used for treating the following conditions:
Although artichoke leaf extract probably doesn't help much with hangovers, there is at least some evidence that it may be beneficial for treating the other conditions listed above
(see Does Artichoke Leaf Extract Work? for more information).
Early studies suggest that artichoke leaf extract may help to lower total
cholesterol and
LDL cholesterol ("
bad cholesterol"). It may also provide a slight benefit for people who have indigestion or heartburn, although the results are not immediate. Early studies also suggest that artichoke leaf extract can help relieve some of the symptoms of irritable bowel disease.
How Does Artichoke Leaf Extract Work?
Artichoke leaf extract contains chlorogenic acid, cynarin, and caffeic acid -- compounds that are thought to be the active components of it.
For treating high cholesterol, artichoke leaf extract may work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that controls the rate of cholesterol production in the body. This causes the liver to make less cholesterol. Many prescription
cholesterol medications work in a similar way.
It is not known exactly how artichoke leaf extract works for treating other health conditions.
