4. Artichoke
While it’s not an herb, artichoke extract is worthy of adding to your shopping list. This potent formula comes from the root, flowers, leaves, and stem of the plant. Artichokes contain high levels of silymarin, and canaries – plant flavonoids with medicinal properties.
Cynarin and silymarin both assist in cleansing the liver and regenerating cells in the organ. Cynarin is a rich source of phenolic acid, which has both choleretic and cholagogue properties. Cholagogue compounds promote the discharge of bile from the digestive system, forcing it downward. Choleretic compounds stimulate the liver’s production of bile.
Unlike dandelion root extract, artichoke has fielded numerous human studies into the compound and its effects on the liver. The consensus states that artichoke extract hinders the development of cancer cells in the liver while protecting the cell lining.
Artichoke extract is the most efficient way of consuming the beneficial ingredients of the plant. However, you can eat whole artichokes and benefit from their potent medicinal properties in your meals as well.