Different aspects of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) medicinal plant: A review

Abstract

<strong>Background & Aim:</strong> Artichoke (<em>Cynara scolymus</em> L.) is a medicinal plant of Asteraceae. This plant is native to the southern Mediterranean and North Africa, and today it is cultivated in many parts of the world for medicinal and nutritional purposes. Capitols are the edible part of the plant and its leaves are used in the pharmaceutical industry. Artichoke has a special place in the pharmaceutical and traditional medicine industry due to its various polyphenols and flavonoids, with an important pharmaceutical and antioxidant effect. Artichokes leaf has anti-oxidative, antibacterial, choleretic and diuretic. In addition, artichoke extract reduces cholesterol and lipids due to the biosynthesis of cholesterol. Chlorogenic acid and cynarin are the major components of the plant and the medicinal properties are mainly related to them. The present study addresses the different aspects of this plant.<br /> <strong>Industrial/ Practical recommendations:</strong> Considerable amounts of different phytochemicals can be found in Artichoke which make it suitable for herbal remedies. More studies about the other useful and unknown properties of this multipurpose plant are essential.