Artichoke Leaf • Cynara scolymus

Parts Used: leaves

Affinity: digestive system, liver

Herbal Action: bitter tonic, hepatorestorative, hypolipidemic, hypotriglyceridemic

Indications:

• Kicks up digestion and stimulates secretions from the gallbladder and pancreas

• Supports balanced liver functions and detoxification

• Reduces LDL cholesterol in blood and reduces fatty liver

• Analog for milk thistle

Preferred Preparations: food as medicine, infusion, tincture

Taste: sweet, earthy flavor

Contraindications: avoid use with biliary obstruction

Origin Story: in 16th century Europe, it was considered an aphrodisiac that was scandalous for women to consume.