Optimization of the extraction procedure for the determination of phenolic acids and flavonoids in the leaves of globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus L.)

•Sonication is suitable for extraction of phenolic compounds from artichoke leaves.•Sonication is more sustainable than the classical Ph. Eur. extraction procedure.•Hot water is less efficient than methanol extraction for phenolic compounds.•TPC and ORAC are highly correlated in artichoke leaves. Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus L.) is not only used as a vegetable and ornamental plant, but also as important medicinal plant for the treatment of dyspeptic disorders. The European Pharmacopoeia describes a method for the quality assessment of dry artichoke leaves, which is time-consuming and requires huge amounts of organic solvents. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction method was studied, which proved to be more efficient than the standard protocol of the European Pharmacopoeia, since it led to comparable results, was faster and easier to handle, and was more sustainable due to a reduced need for organic solvents.