Evidence Level
Moderate
Artichoke extract has solid clinical evidence for digestive and metabolic benefits. Holtmann et al. (2003) published the definitive RCT showing significant dyspepsia symptom reduction with 1800mg/day artichoke leaf extract. Sahebkar et al. (2018) conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis confirming meaningful cholesterol-lowering effects across 9 RCTs. Kirchhoff et al. (1994) directly measured increased bile secretion following artichoke extract administration, providing the mechanistic basis for its traditional digestive use. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved artichoke leaf extract as a traditional herbal medicinal product for relief of digestive complaints and to support liver function.