The evidence supporting these claims is generally weak.
Artichoke leaf extracts are taken by mouth and mainly sold in capsule or gelcap forms.
There are also concentrated liquid forms you could take with a dropper.
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Artichoke leaf extract is sometimes even infused into face creams for its purported anti-aging effects.
It also explains how the over-the-counter supplement is taken as well as the possible risks.
With that said, there have been some promising results that require further investigation.
Learn more about some of the findings published in medical research.
Anti-Aging
Artichoke leaf extract is sometimes infused into face creams claiming it has anti-aging effects.
Liver Disease
There are claims that artichoke extract “cleanses” the liver.
It isn’t currently known how the supplement lowers blood pressure.
Studies thus far have been mixed.
Statins work by blocking an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase that plays a role in cholesterol production.
This suggests that artichoke leaf extract may play a role in the management of mild hypercholesterolemia.
Possible Side Effects
Artichokes are safe when eaten as food.
Studies suggest that artichoke supplements may also be safe when taken for up to 23 months.
The allergic reaction tends to be mild, causing mild upset stomach and loose stools.
Dosage and Preparation
There is no recommended dose for artichoke leaf extract in any form.
The amounts used in research vary from 250 to 2,700 mg per day.
As a general rule, never exceed the dosage listed on the product level.
Speak with your healthcare provider so that you might be monitored for side effects.
Certification does not mean that a supplement works or is inherently safe.
Summary
Claims that artichoke leaf extract can help lower cholesterol remain unproven.
Efficacy of artichoke leaf extract in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial.Phytotherapy Research.
2022;11(3):214-227.
2016 Sep;29(5 Suppl):1775-82.
2018;13(1):44-50. doi:10.2174/1574886312666170912163746
