Artichoke Leaf
Most of us know the globe artichoke for its edible flower bud, served with melted butter. But the large, silvery, deeply lobed leaves have their own long history in herbal tradition.
At a glance
- Botanical name: Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
- Plant family: Daisy family (Asteraceae)
- Part we use: Leaf
- Native to: The Mediterranean
- Character: Strongly bitter
History and tradition
The artichoke is a cultivated form of the cardoon, a thistle native to the Mediterranean. It was enjoyed by the ancient Greeks and Romans and became fashionable in Renaissance Italy and France.
In European herbal tradition, artichoke leaf is a classic bitter herb with a long tradition in digestive preparations. Its bitterness comes from compounds including cynarin.
Artichoke leaf is the base of several traditional European bitter aperitifs, including the Italian liqueur Cynar, which is named after it.
Where you will find Artichoke Leaf in our tinctures
- In DIGESTION, Artichoke Leaf is the classic bitter at the heart of the blend, balanced by sweet Fennel, refreshing Spearmint, warming Ginger, earthy Burdock and fruity Hibiscus.
Did you know?
Catherine de' Medici is said to have brought her love of artichokes to France when she married the future King Henry II in 1533.
Good to know
This herb belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae). If you are allergic to plants in this family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds or daisies, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use. If you have gallstones or a bile duct condition, please also check with your GP first.
As with any herbal supplement, please speak to your GP or pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.
Meet more herbs
If you enjoyed learning about Artichoke Leaf, you may also like Burdock Root, Dandelion Root and Fennel Seed. Or browse every plant in our blends on Meet the Herbs.
Blooming Blends tinctures are food supplements and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
