Though members of the Asteraceae family (like artichoke) are known for having beneficial properties, they’re also known allergens for some people, too. Sesquiterpene lactones, which are one of the potentially beneficial constituents of artichoke, are also known to cause irritation and inflammation. Caution is advised when taking artichoke leaf for anyone who is allergic to other members of this plant family that also includes ragweed, arnica, yarrow, echinacea, chicory, sunflower, and feverfew.[1]
Though there are few reports regarding the adverse effects of artichoke leaf specifically, one case study would suggest that artichoke could potentially adversely interact with other medications.[2] Other reports suggest that artichoke (but not specifically artichoke leaf) could cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis.[3][4] Otherwise, systematic reviews note that adverse events from artichoke consumption tend to be infrequent and, if they do occur at all, are mild and short-lived.[5][6][7]