Cynarin

PhytochemicalPhenolic compound

What is it

Cynarin (also called cynarine, 1,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid) is a polyphenolic compound found primarily in artichoke leaves (Cynara scolymus). It is one of the active components in artichoke extracts used for liver and digestive support.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Functional dyspepsia / indigestion

Good Evidence

Several RCTs of artichoke leaf extract (containing cynarin) show improvements in dyspepsia symptoms compared to placebo.

Cholesterol

Limited Evidence

Some trials show modest reductions in total and LDL cholesterol with artichoke extract supplementation, though magnitude is small.

How it works

Cynarin and related caffeoylquinic acids appear to stimulate bile flow (choleretic effect), support liver enzyme activity, and act as antioxidants. They may also moderately reduce cholesterol synthesis. Most clinical evidence relates to artichoke leaf extract standardized to total caffeoylquinic acid content (including cynarin) rather than isolated cynarin. Effects on indigestion, IBS-like symptoms, and modest cholesterol reduction are the best-supported uses.

Dosage

No established RDA for isolated cynarin. Artichoke extracts are typically dosed 320-1280 mg daily, often standardized to 2-15% cynarin or caffeoylquinic acids.

When and how to take it

WHEN: With or before meals to support bile flow and digestion. HOW: With water; food enhances polyphenol absorption.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Artichoke leaf extract (standardized to cynarin)

Typical commercial form; provides cynarin alongside related compounds.

Cynarin and caffeoylquinic acids are partially absorbed; some metabolized by gut bacteria.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Side effects can include mild GI upset, gas, and (rarely) allergic reactions. People with Asteraceae allergies may react to artichoke products.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in biliary obstruction and gallstones. Use cautiously with hepatic disease without medical guidance. Discuss with clinician if you take blood thinners.

Interactions

Theoretical interaction with anticoagulants (modest antiplatelet effect of polyphenols). Bile-stimulating effect may affect absorption of fat-soluble drugs.

Food sources

Artichoke (especially leaves)

Amount
1 medium (120 g)
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is cynarin the same as artichoke extract?⌄

Cynarin is one of the main active compounds in artichoke leaf extract. Standardized artichoke extracts list cynarin content as a marker, but they contain many related compounds as well.

References

Cynarin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Cynarin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Cynarin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Cynarin with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.