Artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) is a large, thistle-like perennial in the Asteraceae family native to the Mediterranean region. It forms bold silver-green leaves and produces the familiar rounded flower buds harvested before they open. The immature flower buds are eaten as a vegetable, while the leaves have a long history of use in bitter herbal preparations.

In traditional European herbal practice, artichoke leaf is commonly associated with bitter tonics and digestive support, especially after rich foods. The plant sits at the meeting point of kitchen and apothecary, since it has been appreciated both as a cultivated food plant and as a classic bitter herb in teas, tinctures, and extracts.