What is chicory used for?
Chicory is a plant well worth knowing. In addition to its delicate flowers, which follow the path of the sun and vary in color from blue to pink, chicory can bring you a wealth of benefits thanks to its roots. Indeed, their properties for intestinal well-being and digestion, at all ages of life, make it a plant to discover without further delay.
Chicory, also known as wild chicory or bitter chicory, from its Latin name Cichorium intybus, belongs to the Asteraceae family, like the dandelion. Known since antiquity, this plant was cultivated in Egypt, ancient Greece and the Roman Empire for its nutritional properties. Two varieties are mainly used: var sativum, whose roots, once roasted, are used to prepare a drink called "Chicorée soluble", and var foliosum, which gives endive, eaten cooked or in salads.
For several decades, chicory has also been recognized for its therapeutic virtues. In particular, its roots are used for their high content of inulin, a prebiotic fiber. Chicory leaves, which can be used fresh in salads, have prebiotic, digestive and depurative properties, promoting intestinal flora. This plant is also a cholagogue, facilitating the evacuation of bile, and is recommended in cases of liver disorders or gallstones.
Chicory is known for its many health-promoting properties:
- Digestive properties: Chicory is an excellent tonic for the digestive system. It promotes bile production, facilitating fat digestion. It is also recommended in cases of difficult digestion, bloating or gastric pain.
- Depurative effect: Chicory helps eliminate toxins and organic waste from the body, helping to purify the organism. Its diuretic properties help the kidneys eliminate toxins, which can be particularly beneficial in cases of water retention or urinary disorders.
- Liver support: Thanks to its cholagogue action, chicory helps maintain a healthy liver. It is also useful for regulating blood cholesterol levels and supporting liver functions.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: chicory can relieve joint pain, such as that caused by arthritis and rheumatism. It is also effective in soothing the symptoms of allergies and eczema.
- Cardiovascular protection: By helping to eliminate toxins and promoting a healthy metabolism, chicory plays a role in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.
- Cancer prevention: Thanks to its high antioxidant content, chicory helps protect the body's cells from free radical damage, reducing the risk of genetic mutation and cancer development.
Chicory is a real treasure trove for your health, offering a multitude of benefits. We recommend incorporating chicory into your daily routine to maximize its positive effects on your well-being.
The Iphym laboratory also offers chicory cut root at the best price in our online pharmacy.
How to use this plant
Directions for use: To enjoy the benefits of chicory, prepare a decoction using one tablespoon of chicory per cup of water. Heat for 2 minutes, then strain. Two to three cups a day are recommended, one on an empty stomach in the morning and another before bedtime.
Give your opinion on the advice for use and dosage of Chicorée with our partner Verified opinions after your purchase.
Precautions for use: Caution: use of chicory can cause heartburn and esophageal irritation. In the event of discomfort, it is advisable to reduce doses.
What is chicory made of?
Latin name: Cichorium intybus
Synonyms: Nasturtium grass, peasants' hair, bitter chicory, common chicory, intylé chicory, coffee grass, cat's eyes, cat's eyes
Family: Asteraceae
Characteristics: Common plant in France and Europe, it also grows in North Africa.
Parts used: Leaves
Active ingredients: Inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids.
Presentation: Available in 100g, 250g or 1kg sachets.