Cynara cardunculus L.: Outgoing and potential trends of phytochemical, industrial, nutritive and medicinal merits

Cynara cardunculus L. with its three botanical varieties are presented as potential food and drug resources. Its young flower heads are commonly consumed as a principal part of different Mediterranean dishes, especially the globe artichoke, whereas its different plant parts are considered potential sources of valuable phytoconstituents, mainly polysaccharides, and polyphenols. These chemicals contribute to its nutrition, industry, and bioactivities, including hepatic- and cardiovascular protection and inflammation disorders. A holistic comparative study of artichoke phytochemicals make-up as determinants of its quality, nutritive value and health benefits is presented for its different varieties. Such reviewed evidence is an essential prerequisite for a future better selection of certain variety, and or utilization in therapeutic, food and pharmaceutical applications. The review presented few endeavors for the development of potential novel functional foods fortified with artichoke extracts and/or its bioactive which are of value and need to be more recognized commercially.