Artichoke

One of the oldest vegetable plants in the world belonging to the composite family . Cultivated as a vegetable plant in the Mediterranean area and in many other countries. Already known to the Greeks and Romans. Introduced to Central Europe around the 16th century, later also to America.

Cynara scolymus contains phenolic carboxylic acids, in particular (about 15) derivatives of caffeic acid and cyanarin, as well as various other substances. Bitter substances such as the sesquiterpene lactone cynaropikrin, furthermore various other compounds. flavonoids and monsaccharides.

Medical use: Artichoke extracts (see below Cynarae folium) are offered in more than 40 ready-to-use preparations (e.g. juice, tincture) as lipid reducers and to stimulate bile production.

The diuretic and choleretic effect is attributed to the ingredient cynarin.

Because of its bitterness, extracts from artichokes are used in Spain and Italy to stimulate stomach secretion (aperitif) to make liqueur wine.

Cosmetic use: In cosmetic products Cynara scolymus extract (INCI) is used as a skin protecting substance.

Preparation-specific, general 3 x 300 mg dry extract

Up to seven sesquiterpene lactones are present in the artichoke. The sensitising effect has so far only been shown for cynaropizine and Grosheimin. Sensitizing potency: Medium strong. Frequency of sensitization: Occasional.