Artichoke extract

Artichoke extract is a concentrated substance obtained from the leaves or roots of the artichoke plant (Cynara cardunculus). This extract contains biologically active compounds that give artichoke its medicinal properties.

Artichoke contains various beneficial components such as cynarin, quercetin, flavonoids, zincalone, caffeoylchlorogenic acid and others. These compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, choleretic (stimulating the secretion of bile) and cholagogic (enhancing the release of bile from the gallbladder into the intestines) properties.

Artichoke extract is widely used in medicine and dietetics as a natural remedy to improve liver and gallbladder function, lower blood cholesterol, improve digestion, support cardiovascular health, and even for weight loss.

It is important to note that artichoke extract is usually sold as a dietary supplement or as part of a medication. It is recommended that you consult your doctor before using artichoke extract as a medicine.

Indications Artichoke

1. Improved digestion:

   • Artichoke extract stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile, which helps improve digestion and promotes better absorption of nutrients.

2. Prevention and treatment of dyspepsia:

   • Artichoke-based preparations can alleviate symptoms of functional dyspepsia such as bloating, feeling of full stomach and nausea.

3. Supporting liver function:

   • Due to its content of cynarin and other antioxidants, artichoke extract helps protect the liver, stimulates liver cell regeneration and can be used to prevent and treat fatty liver disease.

4. Lowering cholesterol levels:

   • Studies have shown that regular intake of artichoke extract can help lower total and "bad" LDL-cholesterol levels in the blood.

5. Stimulation of urinary output:

   • Artichoke extract has a mild diuretic effect, helping to eliminate excess fluid from the body and reduce swelling.

6. Supporting cardiovascular health:

   • In addition to lowering cholesterol levels, artichoke may have antihypertensive and antiatherosclerotic effects, thereby supporting cardiovascular health.

7. Antioxidant action:

   • Artichoke extract is rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from free radical damage and support the overall health of the body.

Release form

1. Capsules and tablets

• Capsules: This is the most convenient form for use as it allows precise dosing of the active ingredient. Capsules contain dried powdered artichoke extract standardized for cynarin content. Usually available in dosages ranging from 250 to 600 mg.

• Tablets: An alternative to capsules, also containing standardized artichoke extract. Tablets may include additional ingredients to improve absorption or target specific therapeutic effects.

2. Liquid extracts

• Tinctures and Alcohol Extracts: Liquid forms of artichoke extract provide faster absorption and can be used to add to food or drinks. They are ideal for those who have difficulty taking solid dosage forms.

3. Powders

• Dry Powder: Artichoke extract in the form of a free-flowing powder that can be added to smoothies, yogurt or other dishes to improve their nutritional value and flavor.

4. Syrups

• Syrups: A rarer form of release that may be preferred for children or adults who prefer liquid dosage forms. Syrups may contain added sugars or sweeteners to improve flavor.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Choleretic action: Artichoke extract stimulates the production and secretion of bile by liver cells. This helps to improve the digestive process, enhances the digestion of fats and food substances, and reduces the risk of gallstone formation.
2. Cholagogue action: Artichoke extract helps to increase the contractile function of the gallbladder, which improves the process of pushing bile into the intestines. This may help improve peristalsis and ease the digestive process.
3. Hepatoprotective action: Some studies show that artichoke extract has the ability to protect the liver from damage and toxic effects, such as from alcohol or medications. It may help in restoring and maintaining liver function.
4. Antioxidant Action: Artichoke extract contains antioxidants such as quercetin and caffeic acids, which may help protect cells from free radical damage. This may help fight oxidative stress and slow down the aging process.
5. Hypocholesterolemic Action: Some studies suggest that artichoke extract may help lower blood cholesterol levels by improving its metabolism and elimination from the body.

Pharmacokinetics

Information on the pharmacokinetics of artichoke extract is limited, as it is generally considered a dietary supplement or natural remedy. In most cases, artichoke extract is considered a natural product and is not subjected to extensive clinical trials such as traditional pharmaceuticals.

Nevertheless, it can be assumed that after oral administration of artichoke extract, the active components are rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream. From here they can be distributed to the tissues and organs where they exert their effects. Metabolism and excretion of the active ingredients may occur in the liver and kidneys.

More research is needed to fully understand the pharmacokinetics of artichoke extract, including its metabolism, excretion, and potential interactions with other drugs.

Dosing and administration

Method of application

1. Oral Intake:

   • Artichoke extract is usually taken orally in the form of capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts.
   • Capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole with water.
   • Liquid extracts can be diluted in water or other beverages.

2. Addition to Food:

   • Powdered artichoke extract can be added to smoothies, yogurt, and other dishes.

Dosage

Adults

• To support digestion and liver function:

  • Capsules and tablets: Take 300-600 mg of extract 2-3 times daily before meals.
  • Liquid extract: It is generally recommended to take 1-2 ml of liquid extract 2-3 times daily before meals. Label directions should be followed carefully as the concentration of the extract may vary.

• To lower cholesterol:

  • The dosage is similar to the above, but the course of administration is usually long and should be accompanied by monitoring of cholesterol levels under the supervision of a doctor.

Children

• The use of artichoke extract for children should only be under the supervision of a pediatrician, especially important for younger age groups.

Special Instructions

• Allergies: People with allergies to plants in the aster family, such as daisies, chrysanthemums or daisies, may experience allergic reactions to artichokes.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using artichoke extract during pregnancy and lactation has not been established, so a doctor should be consulted before use.
• Drug Interactions: Artichoke extract may interact with medications that affect bile production and liver enzymes. Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

Use Artichoke during pregnancy

The use of artichoke extract during pregnancy should be done only after consulting a doctor. There is not yet sufficient data on its safety for pregnant women. Therefore, it is important to discuss the possible risks and benefits of its use with your doctor before starting treatment.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: People with known hypersensitivity to artichoke or other herbal components of the drug should avoid its use.
2. Gallbladder and biliary tract disease: In people with gallbladder or biliary tract disease, use of artichoke extract may require caution and doctor supervision.
3. Liver Disease: In patients with serious liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, use of artichoke extract may require caution and medical supervision.
4. Gallstone disease: Use of artichoke may be contraindicated in the presence of gallstone disease without medical advice.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of artichoke extract has not been established for pregnant and breastfeeding women, so a doctor should be consulted before use.
6. Children: The safety and efficacy of artichoke extract in children have not been established, therefore its use requires consultation with a physician.

Side effects Artichoke

1. Allergic Reactions:

   • Although rare, allergic reactions to artichoke are possible, especially in people with sensitivities to plants in the aster family (to which artichoke belongs) such as daisies, chrysanthemums, or dandelions. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling of the lips or throat, and difficulty breathing.

2. Gastrointestinal disorders:

   • Artichoke extract may cause gas, abdominal bloating, and stomach discomfort, especially at high doses.

3. Diarrhea:

   • Because of its stimulating effect on bile production, artichoke can promote increased bile production, which sometimes leads to diarrhea.

4. Potential drug interactions:

   • Artichoke extract may interact with medications, especially those used to treat liver and biliary tract disorders. Always consult your doctor before taking artichoke if you are already taking any medications.

5. Effect on gallbladder and liver:

   • People with gallbladder disease or biliary tract obstruction should avoid using artichoke extract, as it may increase bile production and worsen symptoms.

6. Effect on hormone levels:

   • Artichoke may affect hormonal balance, so people with hormone-dependent conditions (e.g., breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, fibroids) should consult a doctor before using it.

Overdose

1. Gastrointestinal disorders:

   • Due to stimulation of bile and gastric juice production, excessive consumption of artichoke extract can lead to diarrhea, stomachaches, nausea and vomiting.

2. Hypotension (low blood pressure):

   • Artichoke extract may have hypotensive effects, and excessive consumption could potentially lead to excessive blood pressure lowering.

3. Allergic Reactions:

   • At high doses, the probability of allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, swelling increases.

4. Abdominal bloating and gas:

   • Excessive consumption can increase gas and abdominal bloating due to stimulation of digestive processes.

5. Effect on bile acid metabolism:

   • Increased doses of artichoke extract can lead to an imbalance in the production and excretion of bile acids, which is especially dangerous for people with gallbladder or liver disease.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Cholesterol-lowering drugs: Artichoke extract may affect blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, combining it with drugs such as statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications may result in additional cholesterol lowering.
2. Liver-treated drugs: Artichoke extract may affect liver function and metabolism of some drugs. Therefore, caution and monitoring of liver values may be required when taken concomitantly with liver-processed drugs.
3. Drugs with hypoglycemic effect: Artichoke extract may lower blood sugar levels, so it should be used with caution when used concomitantly with diabetes medications such as sulfonylurea or insulin.
4. Anticoagulant drugs: Interactions with anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparin may be possible due to the potential effect of artichoke extract on blood coagulation.