Cynaropicrin

PhytochemicalSesquiterpene lactoneBest with a meal

What is it

Cynaropicrin is a sesquiterpene lactone responsible for the characteristic bitter taste of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) and related plants. It is studied for liver-protective and anti-inflammatory activity.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Digestive support (as part of artichoke)

Limited Evidence

Artichoke extracts have shown modest benefit for functional dyspepsia in trials; cynaropicrin is one of the bitter principles contributing to the effect.

How it works

Cynaropicrin is a bitter compound that stimulates bile flow (choleretic effect) and contributes to artichoke's traditional use for digestive complaints. Preclinical studies report anti-inflammatory activity via NF-kB inhibition, antiparasitic activity against trypanosomes, and hepatoprotective effects in rodents. Human clinical data specifically for cynaropicrin alone is sparse; most artichoke benefits in trials come from whole-leaf extracts containing cynarin, chlorogenic acid, and luteolin alongside cynaropicrin.

Dosage

No standardized dose for isolated cynaropicrin. Typical artichoke extract supplements deliver 320-1200 mg of standardized leaf extract per day.

When and how to take it

Take with meals to support digestive function (the traditional use).

1 commercial form

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

Component of artichoke extract

Rarely sold as a standalone; usually present in artichoke leaf extract.

Bioavailability of isolated cynaropicrin is limited.

Safety

Pure cynaropicrin can cause skin contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. As part of artichoke extract, oral use is generally well tolerated. Mild GI side effects are reported.

Who should be cautious

Avoid if you have bile duct obstruction or active gallstones. Allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies) may predict cross-reactivity.

Interactions

Artichoke and its bitter compounds may stimulate bile flow; caution with bile duct obstruction or gallstones. No major drug interactions are established.

Food sources

Artichoke

Amount
Variable
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Why is artichoke so bitter?⌄

Cynaropicrin is the main bitter compound. The bitterness is part of its digestive-stimulating effect.

References

Cynaropicrin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Cynaropicrin (ChEBI:4038) — ChEBI link

Cynaropicrin (PubChem CID 119093) — PubChem link

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

Research on Cynaropicrin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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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.