Globe Artichoke

Globe Artichoke is a species of thistle with a powerful effect on bile production and fat-digesting enzymes, which stimulates liver functions.

Like Milk Thistle, Globe Artichoke may support the liver against the harmful effects of substances such as alcohol.^[1][2][3] More importantly, Artichoke has traditionally been used for not just its antioxidant properties, but also to help hangovers.^[3]

Some think Globe Artichoke may also support against heart disease by preventing arteriosclerotic changes in the blood vessels – this is when blood pressure increases because plaque builds up inside artery walls and reduces blood flow. Aqueous extracts from Artichoke leaves have also reduced cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase and provided a hypolipidemic influence, thus lowering blood cholesterol.^[4]

The enzymes contained in Globe Artichoke can be effective in promoting proper function of the digestive tract.^[5] Globe Artichoke promotes improved bile secretion that aids digestion, especially of fatty foods.

Ingredient Research
1. Mehmetçik, G., et al. "Effect of pretreatment with artichoke extract on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury and
    oxidative stress." Exp. Toxicol. Pathol. 2008 Sep; 60(6): 475-80.
2. Speroni, E., et al. “Efficacy of different Cynara scolymus preparations on liver complaints.” J. Ethnopharmacol. 2003
    Jun; 86(2-3): 203-11. 
3. Antioxidative and Protective Properties of Extracts from Leaves of the Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) against H
    ydroperoxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in Cultured Rat Hepatocytes
4. Inhibition of Cholesterol Biosynthesis in Primary Cultured Rat Hepatocytes by Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.)
    Extracts
5. A.F. Walker et al. Phytotherapy Research 2001; 15: 58-61

Additional Resources
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Globe_artichoke