Overview
Globe artichokes are perennial plants related to the thistle. They are native to Europe and the Mediterranean. An extract from their leaves is available in the form of a nutritional supplement, which is believed to have a number of medicinal benefits.Consult your physician if you are considering taking an artichoke leaf extract supplement.
Lowering Cholesterol
According to Science Daily, Dr. Rafe Bundy and his team of researchers at the University of Reading in the United Kingdom, have discovered that artichoke leaf extract can help to lower cholesterol levels in patients with slightly elevated cholesterol that were otherwise healthy. The extract is rich in flavonoids, which can help to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic digestive disorder, which can cause stomach pain, constipation, bloating, gas, loss of appetite, emotional distress and depression. In August 2004 The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine published a study claiming that artichoke leaf extract can improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.