Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is cultivated for its hearts in cooking, but it's in its large leaves that its phytotherapeutic active ingredients are concentrated. Used since ancient Egyptian and Greek times for their depurative properties, dried artichoke leaves are today one of the most scientifically documented plants for supporting liver and digestive function.

Their main active ingredients are cynarin (1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid), flavonoids (luteolin, cynaroside), phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid) and inulin (prebiotic fibre). Together, they give artichoke leaf its two signature actions in phytotherapy: a choloretic action (stimulates bile production by the liver) and a cholagogue action (promotes bile evacuation into the intestine). Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats: when it is insufficient or stagnant, bloating, heaviness and difficult digestion appear.

These properties are recognised by four reference health organisations: the German Commission E, ESCOP, EMA and WHO — all validate the use of artichoke leaves to relieve dyspepsia, bloating and flatulence.