Artichoke Extract
Artichoke extract: a luteolin-bearing plant PDE4 inhibitor, the base of the CILTEP stack.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS ARTICHOKE EXTRACT?
Detailed overview
Artichoke extract is prepared from the leaves of Cynara scolymus (globe artichoke) and its active constituents include the flavone luteolin along with cynarin and chlorogenic acid (caffeoylquinic acids). The nootropic interest stems from luteolin's phosphodiesterase-inhibiting activity: luteolin slows the breakdown of cyclic AMP (cAMP) by inhibiting the PDE4 isoenzyme, which theoretically sustains PKA-CREB signaling, a proposed switch for genes involved in memory and neuron growth. In the nootropic community it is best known paired with forskolin as part of the CILTEP stack. Direct human cognitive evidence is limited: most data is mechanistic or preclinical, whereas human clinical trials of artichoke have generally targeted digestive, choleretic and cholesterol-lowering endpoints.
Mechanism
PDE4 inhibition (luteolin) → raises cAMP
Evidence
Limited (mechanistic + preclinical)
Legal status
Dietary supplement / food
Receptor profile
- PDE4 phosphodiesteraseModerate
- CREB (via PKA)Moderate
- Nrf2 antioxidant pathwayWeak
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 4
- Mild bloating, gas or stomach upset, especially at higher doses
- Possible allergic reaction in people sensitive to the Asteraceae (daisy) family
- Increased bile flow, which can cause discomfort with gallstones or bile duct obstruction
- The nootropic cognitive effect is unproven in humans: evidence is mostly mechanistic and preclinical
Contraindications · 3
- Gallstones or bile duct obstruction: avoid without medical supervision due to the choleretic effect
- Known Asteraceae allergy (ragweed, marigold, chamomile cross-allergy)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: avoid in the absence of sufficient safety data
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
Ameliorating effect of luteolin on memory impairment in an Alzheimer's disease model
Yu TX, Zhang P, Guan Y, Wang M, Zhen MQ
Luteolin Could Improve Cognitive Dysfunction by Inhibiting Neuroinflammation
Yao ZH, Yao XL, Zhang Y, Zhang SF, Hu JC
Luteolin suppresses inflammation through inhibiting cAMP-phosphodiesterases activity and expression of adhesion molecules in microvascular endothelial cells
Yang HH, Hwangbo K, Zheng MS, Son JK, Kim HY
Inhibition of Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate-Specific Phosphodiesterase by Various Food Plant-Derived Phytotherapeutic Agents
Peluso MR, Wooten NA, Snyder DL
Dietary Luteolin Reduces Proinflammatory Microglia in the Brain of Senescent Mice
Burton MD, Rytych JL, Freund GG, Johnson RW
Natural Molecules as Talented Inhibitors of Nucleotide Pyrophosphatases/Phosphodiesterases (PDEs)
Channar PA, Saeed A, Larik FA
FAQ
FAQ
Artichoke extract: a luteolin-bearing plant PDE4 inhibitor, the base of the CILTEP stack.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.