Dittrichia Supreme
Dittrichia viscosa (also known as Inula viscosa) is a perennial medicinal plant indigenous to the Mediterranean region. It has been used in traditional folk medicine for generations to support digestion, skin health, and overall wellness.
One of the standout characteristics of Dittrichia viscosa is its rich concentration of caffeoylquinic acids, including cynarin—the exact same therapeutic compound famously found in artichoke (Cynara scolymus). However, while artichokes typically require high-heat or alcohol extraction to convert their precursor compounds into active cynarin, Dittrichia naturally synthesizes a robust spectrum of these compounds straight from the ground. Because we use the raw, dried herb, it yields approximately 1% to 2% of these active caffeoylquinic acids by weight in their pure, bioavailable form, without the need for harsh processing or extraction.
Research has shown that these compounds, combined with the plant's diverse phytochemical profile, offer a wide array of systemic health benefits:
Liver Support & Detoxification: Assists the body in the natural breakdown and clearance of hormones and metabolic waste (1, 2).
Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial & GI Support: Occupying a similar space to herbs like Melia and Golden Thread, Dittrichia possesses strong antifungal and gastroprotective properties. Studies have shown it to be effective against fungal strains like Candida albicans (4) and a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA), Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Helicobacter pylori (which is heavily associated with gastric issues) (5-7).
Cardiovascular & Metabolic Homeostasis: Caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol and support healthy lipid metabolism. They also inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in carbohydrate digestion, which helps mitigate post-meal blood sugar spikes (8, 9).
Neuroprotection & Cognitive Health: CQAs, including cynarin, have been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier. They significantly reduce neuro-inflammation and protect neurons from oxidative stress, showing promise for mitigating age-related cognitive decline and supporting overall brain health (10, 11).
Cellular Defense & "Inflammaging" Reduction: Dittrichia acts as a potent antioxidant by actively upregulating the Nrf2 pathway—the body's master regulator of cellular defense. By activating this pathway and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, it helps combat chronic, low-grade inflammation (12, 13).
Contraindications: Do not take if pregnant or nursing.
Recommended Dosage: 1-2 capsules, 3 times a day.
References:
1. Seca, A. M. L., et al. "Phytochemical Characterization and Multi-Biological Potentials of Inula viscosa: New In Vitro Evidence." (2025).
2. Mahmoudi, S., et al. "A comprehensive review on ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemistry, toxicology, and pharmacological activities of Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter." (2024).
3. Ouaritini, Z. B., et al. "Dittrichia viscosa L. Leaves: A Valuable Source of Bioactive Compounds with Multiple Pharmacological Effects." PMC (2022).
4. Rhourri-Frih, B., et al. "Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Insecticidal Properties of a Chemically Characterized Essential Oil from the Leaves of Dittrichia viscosa L." Molecules (2022).
5. Benkhaira, N., et al. "Essential Oil From Dittrichia viscosa L.: A Potential Source of Bioactive Substances With Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Antidiabetic Properties: In Vitro and In Silico Studies." Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2025).
6. Eltawaty, S. I. A., et al. "Phytochemical Study and Potential of Antibacterial Performance of Dittrichia Viscosa Subsp. Viscosa." Journal of Chemical Health Risks (2025).
7. Franco, C., et al. "Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oils of Dittrichia viscosa subsp. viscosa on Helicobacter pylori." (2004).
8. Gong, Z., et al. "Chlorogenic Acid: A Systematic Review on the Biological Functions, Mechanistic Actions, and Therapeutic Potentials." Nutrients (2024).
9. Palmegiano, C., et al. "Insights into the Biological Roles of Artichoke Extracts: Implications in Intestinal, Cardiovascular, and Neurodegenerative Diseases." Preprints (2023).
10. Ferreira, A., et al. "Caffeoylquinic acids: chemistry, biosynthesis, occurrence, analytical challenges, and bioactivity." PMC (2022).
11. Al-Rikabi, et al. "Cynarin protects against seizures and neuronal death in a rat model..." PubMed (2025).
12. Li, Y., et al. "Recent Advances in Biosynthesis and Bioactivity of Plant Caffeoylquinic Acids." MDPI (2024).
13. Geng, et al. "Current Advances in Naturally Occurring Caffeoylquinic Acids: Structure, Bioactivity, and Synthesis." ACS Publications (2020).