Medicinal properties of chicory flowers. Composition, medicinal and beneficial properties of chicory

It is perhaps difficult to find a person on Earth who has never seen this plant in his life. True, not everyone knows that this particular blue flower and is called chicory. This is perennial herbaceous plant from the Astrov family is widely used in medicine, cooking and cosmetics.

What does it look like?

The stem of chicory is erect, resembling a green twig, with a height of 20 to 130 cm, depending on the soil, humidity and light. The stem is rough to the touch and slightly branched. The basal leaves are quite large, with small teeth along the edges of the leaf; closer to the stem they taper, forming a stalk. Upper leaves very small, oblong on the stem. Buds and flowers are located in the axils of the leaves and nodes at the branches of the stem. At the top of the stem there are from 1 to 5 flowers, and on just one plant when favorable conditions their number can reach 50.

Blooms from June to October. In late autumn it blue flowers They often delight the eye right up to the establishment of snow cover. Their size is 1.5-2.5 cm. They have different colors depending on the light, soil fertility and other conditions. In a sunny place they turn blue-violet, in more shady places– light blue or blue, sometimes pink or completely light flowers up to pure white.

The shape of the flower resembles an aster or a daisy, only in the center there is not a dense basket, like daisies, but sparse stamens of the same blue or light blue color. The ends of the petals often have 5, less often 3, 7 or 9 teeth. The root is from 30 to 79 cm long, weakly branched or straight, light brown, milky juice is released at the break. It is also contained in stems and leaves. The seeds are small, ripen in autumn, and are in oblong brown boxes.

Where does it grow?

The distribution area of ​​chicory is very extensive. It covers temperate, subtropical and tropical zones on all continents except Antarctica. It grows in meadows and lawns, next to buildings and in forest clearings, along roads, in vacant lots and pastures. Often found in gardens and vegetable gardens as a weed. Some hobbyists grow chicory specifically for its sake. medicinal properties. Breeders have also begun to work on it, some are trying to develop varieties with decorative qualities, others are trying to develop varieties used as vegetable crop. Leaf varieties are valued for their leaves, which can be used in vitamin-rich salads, and the roots for preparing first and second courses and as a coffee substitute.

In Belgium, this plant ranks second among the vegetables consumed, in Holland – third, in France – fourth. Among the largest producers of chicory are Italy, Spain, the USA, China, Belarus and Ukraine. In Russia, the history of cultivation goes back two hundred years. There is even an ancient variety - Yaroslavl, which is still found in fields and gardens in the Yaroslavl, Novgorod and Ivanovo regions.

The history of the use of chicory goes back centuries. Hippocrates and Galen were aware of its beneficial properties, and in the Middle Ages Avicenna wrote a whole treatise, which was called “Treatise on Chicory”.

Useful and healing properties

Chicory roots contain a lot of inulin. This polysaccharide is broken down by gastric juice, turning into fructose, which lowers blood sugar levels, which is important for diabetics. But the benefits of inulin are not limited to this. It improves immunity, removes “bad” cholesterol, cleanses the intestines of waste and toxins, promotes the proliferation of bifidobacteria in the intestines, increases hemoglobin, strengthens bones, improves metabolism and protects the liver, promotes the absorption of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and copper from food.

Inulin can be bought at the pharmacy, but in chicory it works in combination with other substances that enhance its effect.

Chicory has a choleretic, diuretic, sedative, vasodilator and antimicrobial effect.

It is used in medicine for a very impressive number of diseases, these are:

• hepatitis;
• gastritis;
• stomach ulcer;
• anemia;
• anorexia;
• exhaustion;
• thyrotoxicosis;
• diabetes;
• pancreatitis;
• cystitis;
• nephritis;
• urinary incontinence;
• enteritis.

IN folk medicine this list is supplemented by:

• insomnia;
• impotence;
• toothache;
• gout;
• heartburn;
• constipation;
• inflammatory eye diseases;
• myopia;
• farsightedness;
• joint pain;
• tuberculosis;
• hypertension;
• angina;
• inflammation of the lymph nodes;
• toxicosis of pregnant women;
• allergy;
• psoriasis;
• eczema;
• diathesis;
• old wounds.

As the medicinal properties are studied and confirmed, folk experience gains scientific recognition.

Compound

In terms of inulin content, chicory is a record holder. Its content in freshly collected roots is 14-20%, and in dried roots – up to 70%. This is much more than in the roots of Jerusalem artichoke. The roots and leaves contain B vitamins, including choline, which helps with brain function. The leaves contain a lot of folic acid (per 100 g more than a half daily requirement), a significant amount of ascorbic acid, iron and potassium.

There are other minerals (calcium, magnesium and phosphorus), but their content is not so high. Of the microelements, the high content of zinc, copper, chromium and manganese in the leaves and roots of chicory should be noted; there is also selenium, nickel and zirconium.

The bitter taste is due to the glycoside intibin. The leaves contain up to 4% protein, as well as coumarins and flavonoids. The seeds can contain up to 28-30% fatty oil, and the inflorescence also contains caffeine.

Harm and contraindications

Patients with varicose veins and hemorrhoids, as well as people with low blood pressure, should use chicory with caution. Contraindicated in case of high acidity of gastric juice and exacerbation of ulcers. It should also not be given to children under 3 years of age. The simultaneous use of chicory with antibiotics interferes with their absorption, so this combination is undesirable.

What parts of the plant are used?

All parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes: rhizomes, leaves, small stems, buds and flowers. Fresh leaves suitable for salads. Dried roots are used instead of coffee or all kinds of medicinal decoctions and infusions are prepared from them. The above-ground parts of the plant are also used to make medicines.

Collection and storage

The roots are being harvested late autumn, most often in October, when they contain the most nutrients. You can prepare and in early spring, but only at the very beginning of leaf regrowth, later the content of nutrients in the roots decreases sharply. It is better to do this after rains; it is much easier to dig up roots from damp soil, since in damp weather the rhizome is more elastic. The roots are carefully dug in from all sides to the full depth and pulled out. Then they are cleaned of soil, washed in a running cold water, dry with a paper towel, remove small shoots with a knife, leaving the main root and fairly thick shoots. Long roots cut crosswise into small pieces, and thick pieces – also lengthwise.

You can dry the roots in room conditions within 10-14 days. The criterion for readiness is that when bent, the roots break with a bang, but do not crumble. Can also be dried on outdoors, and you need to protect them from rain, as well as from direct sun rays. Drying under natural conditions promotes maximum preservation of nutrients. If you don't have enough space or time, you can use dryers for dried fruits.

You can dry chicory under infrared lamp, if one is available, and if not, just put it in the oven. In this case, the roots are laid out on baking sheets lined with paper. In this case, the door must be left open, and the temperature should not exceed 50-55 degrees. The drying time will be from 5 to 7 hours.

The aerial part of chicory is also used for medicinal purposes. Cut off top part plants 30-35 cm long. It is better to collect plants in dry, clear weather, in the morning after the dew has dried. The collected grass is sorted out, yellowed leaves are removed, the grass is cut into pieces 3-4 cm long or dried whole. This requires a dry, well-ventilated, shaded place. An attic or dressing room will do. In the latter case, it should be ventilated more often. It is better to dry the crushed raw materials on sieves for better air exchange. If dried entirely, then you can use trays, not forgetting to turn them daily. You can tie the grass into small bunches and hang it. Drying is complete if the stems break easily with a slight crack.

Dried roots are best stored in glass jars made of dark glass. Shelf life is no more than 3 years. The roots can be ground in a coffee grinder and then lightly fried. This product can replace coffee. This product should be stored in a dark place in tightly closed glass jars for no more than 2 years.

Dried herbs can be stored for a year in paper bags, glass jars or canvas bags. You can also dry the leaves of wild or cultivated chicory. They are laid out on baking sheets lined with clean paper. After drying, the leaves are crushed.

Application

In medicine

People's memory has preserved many ancient recipes for treating many different diseases with chicory. New recipes are also appearing. The root is most often used in the form of a decoction or infusion. To prepare the decoction, 1 tsp. The dried root, finely ground in a coffee grinder, should be poured with a glass of cold water and put on fire. Cook for 2-3 minutes and let it brew. Take one glass 3 times a day for exhaustion, anemia and loss of strength.

The infusion is prepared by taking 2 tsp. chicory for 1 cup boiling water. Stir, wrap or pour into a thermos, leave for 2 hours. Take 2 tbsp. spoons before meals for diseases of the stomach, pancreas, liver and bile ducts. The infusion can be used to rinse your mouth for toothache and stomatitis. For boils, dermatitis, eczema, take 100 g orally 3 times a day, and also apply externally in the form of baths and compresses. For paresis, sore spots are rubbed with an alcohol tincture of chicory herb.

In cooking

Cultivated root or salad varieties of chicory are used for food, and in their absence, you can also take wild plants. The bitter taste of chicory roots and leaves is much less pronounced if they are soaked before cooking, although some of the beneficial substances are lost. Crushed chicory roots are used as a flavoring additive in baked goods, confectionery and cakes. They give baked goods a delicate nutty taste.

Chicory can be brewed as tea by taking 1 tsp. powder per glass of water. At the same time, it is kept on fire for 2 minutes. To improve the taste, add sugar, or even better, a teaspoon of honey. The coffee drink is prepared from roasted and crushed roots. The preparation method is the same as for tea. Sugar and milk are added to the finished drink. Ground chicory makes a wonderful seasoning that gives meat, fish and vegetable dishes a unique taste. Cultivated root varieties form a medium-sized root vegetable that can be stewed and fried, and also added to soups.

You can add the plant to a tomato salad in the amount of 1-2 roots per 4-5 pieces. tomatoes. Also add half a lemon, a teaspoon of sugar and season with vegetable oil to the salad. The most commonly grown leaf varieties of chicory are witloof, endive, radicchio (or otherwise radiccio) and escarole.

Witloof is especially interesting. This delicacy produces a small white head, resembling Chinese cabbage, only much less. It is wonderful both fresh in salads and fried in oil as a side dish for meat and fish dishes. In salads, it goes well with cheese, feta cheese, nuts, pears, apples and avocado.

In cosmetics

Ointments and tinctures with dried chicory powder are used in medicinal cosmetics. They are very effective for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and boils. For bags under the eyes, make a cold compress from an infusion of roots or herbs. Chicory promotes collagen production and skin rejuvenation. It is also good for hair. Chicory is used in shampoos that strengthen hair and promote hair rapid growth and recovery.

You can use infusions to pour over your hair after washing. Or you can prepare a hair mask by making infusions of chicory, burdock and lovage roots, apply it to your hair along with the grounds, leave for 20-30 minutes and rinse with water.

To find out which is healthier - tea or chicory, see the following video.

Chicory- the eternal companion of the hot summer, so dear to the Russian soul. Chicory grows throughout Russia, in fields, meadows, and along roads. Even if the heat dries up the herbs, Chicory holds firm, lifting its sky-blue flowers towards the sun. For its durability and hard stem, it is also called “Road Guard”.

Chicory widely used in folk medicine. A wonderful drink is made from chicory roots, not inferior to Coffee.

Names of Chicory

People call Chicory: Petrov batog, wild chicory, Petrov batog, shcherbak, Petrov whip, blue batogs, roadside grass, blue flower, Tatar color, sickle, black companion, yellow grass, shkerda, endevi.

Where does chicory grow?

Chicory grows throughout Russia. It is found in meadows, along roads, along ditches, as a weed in weedy wastelands, and in some places it forms large thickets.

What does Chicory look like?

Common chicory- a perennial herbaceous plant with milky sap.

Chicory stem erect, ribbed, reaching a height of 30 to 120 cm, with branched twig-like branches.

Chicory flowers light blue, located in the axils of the leaves at the ends of the branches and collected in open baskets.

In fine weather summer days Chicory pleases the eye with sky-blue flowers. The basket inflorescences of Chicory resemble cornflowers, which is why people call it a blue flower. Chicory has other poetic names - each country has its own. They reflect the habitat, appearance and properties of Chicory: roadside grass, guardian, road watchman, waiting plant and even an enchanted maiden. In Poland, Slovenia and Bulgaria, chicory is called the bride of the sun, because its flowers turn after the sun walking across the sky.

Chicory flowering time

Chicory blooms all summer and autumn, until the cold weather.

Collection and preparation of chicory

Chicory herb harvested in June-August and dried directly in the sun. A chicory roots dig in September-October or early spring; it is better to do this after rain, when the ground is soft and the roots are easy to pull out.

Medicinal properties of chicory

Chicory normalizes metabolism in the body, is able to remove everything from the body waste toxins. Chicory cleanses the kidneys, helps improve the condition of patients diabetes. In addition, it is used to improve blood composition. Chicory stimulates appetite, improves intestinal activity, and is also an excellent remedy for heartburn. Thanks to chicory's ability to increase overall body tone, it is used instead of coffee beans. A drink made from chicory cleanses blood vessels and relieves tiredness and tiredness.
Chicory has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is used as an antipyretic for colds and other diseases.

Chicory improves sleep

Thanks to its stimulating effect on the central nervous system, Chicory reduces its excitability and improves sleep (unlike coffee).

Chicory improves digestion

The bitter substances present in chicory promote the secretion of gastric juice, which activates digestion. The more bitter the taste of chicory, the more beneficial it affects the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Chicory is especially useful for chronic gastritis with decreased secretion of gastric juice and Achilles (inhibition of gastric secretion).

Chicory, actively stimulating the functioning of the stomach, prevents sluggish digestion, helps the stomach quickly digest even hard-to-digest food, and even saves from heartburn. By adding chicory decoction to milk, you don’t have to worry about such unpleasant consequences as bloating, rumbling, flatulence, weak stools, etc., since it promotes the proper absorption of milk.

Chicory cleanses the liver

Chicory- simply a salvation for the poor, tired liver of a modern city dweller: it significantly improves its function, removing toxins from the body and thereby allowing it to work calmly, without stress.

Chicory for skin

Daily use of chicory herb and root relieves acne, skin rashes, irritation, and boils. The skin becomes soft and beautiful again. Since the entire body is cleansed, overall well-being also improves. Breath becomes fresh - this is the first sign of health.

Chicory for diabetes

By stimulating metabolism in the body, Chicory reduces high blood sugar and, along with other sugar-lowering plants, can be successfully used in the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

Chicory improves vision

Not everyone probably knows about the miraculous properties of Chicory and Dandelion in terms of restoring vision.

Chicory, by the way, is closely related to Dandelion. Their chemical compositions are largely the same. They contain nutrients that the optic nerve and lens muscles constantly need. So, if you drink a mixture of chicory (or dandelion) and carrot juices, you will quickly eliminate vision defects. You can also add parsley and celery to this cocktail.

Chicory during pregnancy

Chicory during pregnancy prescribed as an effective tonic. Healthy drinks based on Chicory are able to gently remove toxins and excess fluid from the body, preventing swelling, heartburn and nausea.

However, when feeding, it is advised to avoid Chicory, including due to its strong stimulating effect.

Applications of Chicory

Chicory is best known as a coffee drink. Nowadays, it is no longer difficult to find a package of ready-made powder in the store.

You can make a drink from Chicory yourself - wash the roots, fry, grind into powder and brew.

For oral administration, chicory herb and flowers are also brewed as tea.

I heard that they are fresh chicory flowers, can be eaten to improve vision. I tried to eat a few of them myself. The taste, although bitter, is “noble”.

Chicory - interesting facts

Chicory- an excellent and healthy coffee substitute. Cafein free.

Bees love it very much chicory flowers, they have a lot of pollen. Therefore, chicory is considered a honey flower. If you have seen a honeycomb, they also contain multi-colored cells with pollen (pure protein). Blue and blue cells are just Chicory pollen.

Chicory V folk beliefs. In almost all countries there was a belief that chicory root could make a person invisible.

In the article we talk about chicory, discuss it beneficial features and use in folk medicine. You will learn how to use chicory for blood pressure, to normalize the gastrointestinal tract and for weight loss.

Chicory (lat. Cichorium) is a genus of biennial or perennial plants of the Asteraceae family. Includes 2 cultivated species - salad chicory and common chicory. The latter is used for medicinal purposes, and we will talk about it in the article.

Among the people, common chicory also has other names - roadside grass, blue flower, petrovy batogi, shcherbak.

What does it look like

Chicory - perennial, a widespread weed. It has a long taproot and laticifers in all organs.

Photo and description of the chicory plant: Appearance chicory The stem of chicory is erect, twig-like, green or bluish-green in color. Branched, rough to the touch. It reaches a height of 15 to 150 cm. The branches of the plant deviate greatly from the stem and thicken towards the top. They can be hairless or almost hairless, bristly or curly-haired.

The basal leaves of chicory can be from planum-pinnately divided to entire. The leaves are serrated along the edges and taper into a petiole at the base. Stem leaves are sparse and small, lanceolate-ovate and lanceolate in shape.

Numerous single baskets are formed at the top of the lateral branches and in the axils of the upper and middle leaves. Chicory flowers are reed, blue, white or Pink colour, have a rim 15−25 mm long. The baskets open only in the morning or in cloudy weather.

The fruit of chicory is a three-pentagonal achene, light brown in color, oblong in shape, 2-3 mm long.

Where does it grow

Common chicory is most common in the temperate and tropical climates of Eurasia. It can be found in the territory from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, and from Britain to Eastern Siberia and India. The plant also grows in North and South Africa, North and South America, in New Zealand.

Chicory grows in meadows, forest glades, grassy slopes, wastelands, near roads and near populated areas.

Chicory root and leaves

The roots and leaves of the plant are used for medicinal purposes.. Although chicory flowers and stems also have beneficial properties, their content of biologically active substances is much lower.

Chemical composition

Composition of chicory:

• polysaccharide inulin;
• protein substances;
• glycoside intibin;
• tannins;
• organic acids;
• coumarin glycosides;
• thiamine;
• riboflavin;
• carotene;
• ascorbic acid;
• potassium;
• calcium;
• phosphorus;
• magnesium;
• sodium.

A popular question that users ask is, does chicory have caffeine? There is no caffeine in chicory, this is one of the advantages of the plant and drinks based on it.

We will talk more about the beneficial properties and contraindications of fresh and instant chicory below.

Medicinal properties

Use chicory roots and leaves. Useful properties of chicory:

• antibacterial;
• antioxidant;
• anti-inflammatory;
• pain reliever;
• tonic;
• soothing;
• antisclerotic;
• hypotensive;
• choleretic;
• laxative;
• decongestant;
• immunomodulatory.

Dried chicory roots consist of 40% inulin polysaccharide. Inulin is not digested in the stomach and acts as a prebiotic - it stimulates the growth and vital activity of intestinal microflora. Read more about inulin in chicory here.

Thanks to inulin, chicory has a beneficial effect on the composition of the blood and its rheological properties. Plant-based products reduce glucose and cholesterol levels, normalize blood pressure and reduce blood clotting. Therefore, chicory is useful for diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis, and for the same reason it is prohibited for use in varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Inulin in chicory improves digestion, relieves inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, stimulates intestinal motor function and has a mild laxative effect. Chicory has a choleretic effect. Medicines based on it eliminate stagnation of bile and promote the removal of small stones from the gallbladder. We talked about this in more detail in the articles: chicory for gastritis, for peptic ulcers and for the removal of the gallbladder.

Chicory is good for the nervous system. It has a calming effect, relaxes, and eliminates anxiety. Chicory is recommended to drink for stress, increased excitability, cognitive impairment - decreased memory, concentration, mental performance and others. Chicory helps with headaches and migraines. And its use in the morning tones and gives a boost of energy.

What else is chicory good for? Plant-based products have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Chicory strengthens the heart and helps normalize rhythm. The drink is often used as a prophylactic to prevent arrhythmia and other disorders. You can learn about the effect of chicory on blood pressure in this article.

Thanks to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of chicory, it is used to treat joint diseases - arthritis, myositis, gout. It stops inflammatory processes in joint tissues and reduces pain. You can read more about chicory for gout here.

The diuretic properties of chicory promote excretion excess liquid from the body and eliminate edema.

Chicory also has an antibacterial effect on pathogenic microflora of the oral cavity. Acts as an antiseptic and eliminates inflammatory processes. Increases immunity.

The listed properties are characteristic of chicory roots and leaves, which are collected according to certain rules and dried, as well as for preparations based on them. But is instant chicory good for the body?

The most common chicory powder that can be found on sale is crushed roots, which were initially dried at a temperature of 180-200 degrees or fried in order to give the drink a coffee taste. At this temperature, most of the beneficial substances disappear. However, if you buy organic freeze-dried chicory from a trusted manufacturer, you can be sure that the drink will be beneficial if used correctly.

You can also prepare chicory yourself at home; below we will tell you how to do it correctly.

How to collect

You already know where chicory grows. Its leaves can be collected and prepared from June to September, and its roots in early spring or late autumn.

Chicory leaves and stems are collected in dry weather. Spread in a thin layer on cloth or paper and dry in the shade under a canopy or in the attic. The raw material is stirred periodically so that it dries evenly. Drying can be considered complete when the stems break easily and the leaves crumble. Chicory leaves and stems are stored in canvas bags or paper bags in a dry and dark place. Shelf life: 1 year.

Chicory roots are dug up, cleared of soil and quickly washed in cold water. First, lay out for initial drying. Next, the roots are cut into pieces, laid out on cloth or paper and dried in a ventilated area under a canopy. Drying is stopped when the roots break easily and produce a characteristic cracking sound. Chicory roots can also be dried in the oven with the door ajar at a temperature not exceeding 50 degrees or in a special electric dryer. Raw materials are stored in wooden boxes or paper bags in a dry and dark place. Shelf life: 3 years.

Now you know when to collect and how to dry chicory. Next we will talk about its use in folk medicine.

How to use

Instant chicory brewed like coffee. Decoctions, infusions, teas, as well as lotions and compresses for external use are made from chicory leaves and roots. You can also purchase chicory extract at pharmacies or stores. In addition to its benefits, chicory can also cause harm, so consult your doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.

Chicory is usually drunk as tea or coffee. Below is a classic recipe for how to brew chicory.

Ingredients:

1. Chicory - 1 teaspoon.
2. Boiling water - 1 glass.

How to cook: Pour boiling water over the chicory, place on low fire and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and steep the drink for another 5-10 minutes. Strain.

How to use: Drink like tea.

Result: Improves performance of cardio-vascular system, lowers blood sugar levels, calms the central nervous system, and activates digestion.

It’s even easier to brew instant chicory. How much you can drink per day - no more than 3-4 glasses. It is preferable to take the drink an hour after meals. Do not pour boiling water over instant chicory, use warm water.

For weight loss (with diet)

Chicory effectively helps in the fight against excess weight. A drink based on plant roots does not burn fat, but it stimulates intestinal function, improves digestion, reduces blood glucose levels, and removes waste and toxins from the body. You can read more about this in the article chicory for the liver.

Ingredients:

1. Chopped chicory root - 1 teaspoon.
2. Water - 2 glasses.

How to cook: Cover the chicory with water and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the drink before drinking.

How to use: Take half a glass 30 minutes before meals 3 times a day.

Result: Promotes weight loss without harm to health.

Chicory is also used for weight loss because the drink based on it is low-calorie. The calorie content of chicory is only 21 kcal per 100 grams, while the calorie content of coffee is 109 kcal per 100 grams.

Read more about chicory for weight loss in this article.

From pressure

To reduce blood pressure and maintaining its normal indicators, you can drink chicory brewed according to classic recipe. Honey will help enhance its effect. Chicory with honey not only helps normalize blood pressure, but also improves immunity.

Ingredients:

1. Chicory - 1 teaspoon.
2. Honey - 1 teaspoon.
3. Boiling water - 1 glass.

How to cook: Brew chicory. If you use prepared raw materials, simmer for 5-10 minutes over low heat. Instant just add warm water. Add honey to a warm drink. Chicory should not be hot, otherwise the beneficial substances contained in honey will be destroyed.

How to use: Drink the drink in the morning on an empty stomach.

Result: Chicory with honey helps lower blood pressure, has a tonic effect and improves immunity.

For diarrhea

Chicory improves intestinal motility, but correct use has a strengthening effect and helps with diarrhea. To treat diarrhea, chicory is taken in the form of an infusion or decoction; it can be taken by adults and children. Recipes are presented below.

Ingredients:

1. Boiling water - 1 cup boiling water.

How to cook: Place chicory flowers in a thermos and pour boiling water over them. Leave for 2 hours. Strain before use.

How to use: Drink the entire infusion during the day, dividing it into 5-6 equal parts. Give children 5-6 times a day, 1 teaspoon.

Result: Eliminates diarrhea, normalizes digestion.

You can also prepare a decoction of chicory for diarrhea.

Ingredients:

1. Dried chicory flowers - 1 tablespoon.
2. Boiling water - 1 glass.

How to cook: Fill the raw material with water and place on low heat. Cook for 5 minutes, do not let it boil too much. Leave the finished broth for 1.5 hours. Strain before use.

How to use: Take 5-6 times a day, divided into equal parts. Give children 1 teaspoon, number of doses - 5-6 times a day.

Result: Normalizes stool and digestion.

For cholelithiasis

Chicory roots and herbs are useful for gallstone disease. As a remedy with a choleretic effect, it is used together with dandelion roots, mint leaves, tripoli and agrimony.

Ingredients:

1. Chicory roots - 50 grams.
2. Dandelion roots - 50 grams.
3. Mint leaves - 50 grams.
4. Trifoli leaves - 50 grams.
5. Agrimony leaves - 50 grams.
6. Boiling water - 500 ml.

How to cook: Mix medicinal plants and take 2 tablespoons of raw materials. Pour boiling water over it and leave for 1-2 hours. Strain before use.

How to use: Take the decoction for 2 days, dividing into equal portions.

Result: Relieves inflammation, promotes the flow of bile, prevents the formation of gallstones.

Read more about chicory for the gallbladder here. You can also learn about the use of the plant for pancreatitis and for the pancreas.

For joints

Chicory has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is used as an external remedy for joint diseases. The recipe is presented below.

Ingredients:

1. Dry chicory herb - 20 grams.
2. Dry chicory roots - 20 grams.
3. Boiling water - 2 cups.

How to cook: Pour boiling water over the raw material, leave for 10 minutes.

How to use: Use chicory infusion as lotions and compresses for sore joints. Compresses can be secured with a bandage and left overnight.

Result: Relieves pain in joints, relieves inflammation.

Contraindications

Despite its benefits, chicory has serious contraindications and side effects. Before using it for medicinal purposes, be sure to consult your doctor.

Contraindications for chicory:

• children under 3 years of age;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding (only after consulting a doctor);
• gastritis and gastric ulcer in the acute stage;
• cholelithiasis with large stones in the gallbladder;
• varicose veins and hemorrhoids;
• serious diseases of the nervous system.

Chicory can cause allergies, which are manifested by itching and redness, impaired respiratory function, and pulmonary obstruction.

When consuming chicory large quantities the drink increases blood pressure, causes heart rhythm disturbances, provokes headaches, nausea, heartburn, and increases the production of hydrochloric acid in the gastric mucosa.

Classification

Taxonomic position:

• department: Flowers;
• class: Dicotyledons;
• order: Astroflora;
• family: Asteraceae;
• genus: Chicory;
• species: Common chicory.

Varieties

The genus chicory includes 10 species; in addition to common chicory, the most famous is salad chicory or endive.

Other types of chicory:

• Cichorium alatum;
• Cichorium bottae Deflers;
• Cichorium callosum Pomel;
• Cichorium calvum;
• Cichorium dubium;
• Cichorium hybridum;
• Cichorium pumilum;
• Cichorium spinosum.

More about chicory:

What to remember

1. Chicory is a plant whose leaves, stems and roots are used in folk medicine and in cooking as a drink that replaces coffee.
2. Chicory lowers blood sugar levels, normalizes blood pressure, the functioning of the nervous system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Take chicory for high cholesterol and diarrhea.
3. Drinks based on chicory have contraindications for use, please read them. Before using chicory for medicinal purposes, consult your doctor.

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Common chicory is a biennial or perennial tall herbaceous plant with straight branched stems and a fleshy spindle-shaped root up to 1.5 meters long. With large reeds blue flowers, sometimes the flowers are white or light pink. All parts of the plant have milky sap. Chicory blooms from June to September and is a good honey plant.

Chemical composition

Medicinal properties and uses of chicory

Chicory is widely used in medicine, both folk and official, as it has sedative and antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, diuretic and choleretic, vasodilator and other beneficial properties.

It is part of various medications that are used to treat the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, central nervous system, and helps in the fight against liver, kidney and spleen diseases.

Chicory decoction is used to treat diathesis in children, used in the form of lotions and rubs, to relieve joint pain due to gout.

Chicory also has a healing effect on old wounds, purulent boils, psoriasis, eczema, and snake bites.

Has a choleretic and diuretic effect, removes cholesterol, radioactive and other harmful substances, helps in the fight against atherosclerosis, as a diuretic it is used to treat diseases of the bladder and kidneys.

Chicory lowers blood sugar levels, therefore it is indicated for the prevention and treatment of diabetes.

It has an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringent effect and is used as an antipyretic, has a calming effect on nervous system and is used as a sleeping pill for insomnia, neuroses, and hypertension.

This amazing plant widely used in Food Industry. Chicory is added to sweets, cakes, coffee and tea drinks. Chicory is an excellent coffee substitute.

Contraindications to the use of chicory

Any medicinal plant should be used only after consultation with your doctor and having read the contraindications for use!

Chicory is prohibited for people with varicose veins, hemorrhoids, vascular and cardiovascular diseases, since chicory has a vasodilating effect.

Chicory should not be used for food or treatment if bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.

Take with caution and only after consulting a doctor and strictly in recommended doses for people with high stomach acidity, gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, and patients with kidney, liver and gallbladder diseases. As well as for patients suffering from joint pain, gout, arthritis.

Obese people should not get carried away with chicory, as it increases appetite.

Take with caution for diseases of the nervous system, depression and insomnia.

A contraindication to the use of chicory preparations is individual intolerance; chicory can cause allergic reactions.

Chicory overdose

Many people use chicory as a coffee substitute and drink this drink in large quantities. But overdose and long-term use of chicory can cause side effects in the form of insomnia, irritation, exacerbation of urolithiasis and gall bladder, gout and arthritis. Excessive consumption of chicory drink promotes the formation of kidney stones.

Traditional methods of treatment with chicory

All parts of the plant are used as medicinal raw materials in folk medicine; powders, decoctions, infusions are made from the roots, treated with fresh juice, added to medicinal fees. Use fresh, dried and roasted roots, as well as leaves and stems.

Recipe for a decoction of roots for diathesis

Finely chop the chicory roots, take 4 tablespoons, pour one glass of boiling water and cook for 30 minutes. Cool the broth and strain. This decoction is used externally for lotions, rubbing and bathing.

Decoction for kidney and liver diseases, to improve digestion

Dry leaves and roots of chicory 15-30 grams, pour 1 liter of hot water, boil for 5 minutes. Take one cup of decoction before meals during the day and evening.

Decoction for the treatment of liver, kidneys, gall bladder and constipation

Pour 1 tablespoon of chopped root into three glasses of hot water. Simmer over low heat for about ten minutes. Cool the broth and strain. Drink a third of a glass three times a day.

Decoction for hypertension, hepatitis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, cholelithiasis

Pour 2 teaspoons of dry crushed chicory herb into two glasses of hot water. Boil for 10 minutes over low heat, strain. Take half a glass of decoction three times a day.

Root decoction for treating joint pain

Pour 20 grams of crushed dry root into one glass of hot water, boil for 15 minutes over low heat, strain. Add boiled water to the original volume. Moisten gauze in the broth and apply to sore joints.

Infusion of chicory herb for arrhythmia

Pour 20 grams of crushed dry raw materials into a glass of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, strain. Take two tablespoons of infusion three times a day. This remedy stimulates cardiac activity and relieves edema of cardiac origin.

Infusion to increase appetite and improve digestion, for the treatment of acne, eczema and boils

Chop fresh or dry chicory leaves and stems, take a tablespoon of herbs, pour two cups of boiling water, and wrap. When the infusion has cooled, it needs to be strained. Take one quarter glass of infusion three times a day before meals.

To treat acne, boils, eczema and other skin problems, use the infusion externally as a lotion for rinsing.

Infusion for the treatment of hemorrhoids

Pour 1 teaspoon of chopped chicory into a glass of hot water. Leave and strain. Take half a glass of infusion 3 times a day before meals.

Juice from chicory leaves and stems for anemia

Fresh tops of the plant are suitable for preparing juice; they must be thoroughly washed, scalded with boiling water and twisted through a meat grinder. Squeeze the juice from the resulting mass and boil it over low heat for 2-3 minutes. The juice should be stored in the refrigerator. Dissolve one teaspoon of juice in half a glass of warm milk, add 1 teaspoon of honey. Use three times a day for a month.

Fresh juice for scurvy and anemia

Extract the juice from fresh chicory stems and leaves and add 1 tablespoon of juice to a cup of milk. Drink this remedy 3-4 times a day for 4-6 weeks.

Fresh juice for swelling

Dilute 20 drops of fresh herb juice in half a glass of milk, drink 3 times a day.

Chicory for beauty and strengthening hair

Chicory is used in folk medicine to improve the structure and growth of hair and against hair loss. Decoctions of roots and stems will help restore vitality and natural shine to your hair. Decoctions are also used to treat acne and purulent pimples.

Despite the fact that chicory has been known since ancient times, in our time the attitude towards it is twofold. Some see it only as a weed, albeit a delicately blooming one, while others treat it as a coffee surrogate. And people who are well versed in medicinal plants, “hats off to him.”

Useful, medicinal properties of chicory and its composition

• Chicory roots contain inulin, which can be called a natural substitute for starch and sugar in diabetes.
• Chicory also contains the glycoside intibin, choline, gum, resin, tannins, chicorine, essential oil, lactucin and lactucopyrin.
• Chicory roots are used to improve digestion, increase appetite, and for dyspepsia.
• The roots have a choleretic effect and are used for liver diseases and gallbladder, for cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, inflammation of the pancreas. It’s not for nothing that chicory is popularly called “liver grass.”
• Chicory is used for gout, joint diseases, osteochondrosis, atherosclerosis, obesity, and metabolic disorders.
• Chicory has a positive effect on neuroses, asthenia and hysteria.
• Externally, chicory is used for insect bites, as well as in the treatment of skin diseases. It helps well with diathesis in children.
• Chicory juice, together with the juice of carrots, parsley and celery, restores vision.

Contraindications: vascular diseases, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, as well as individual intolerance.

Where does chicory grow?

Chicory grows almost everywhere where there is a lot of sun: in clearings, wastelands, hills, along roads and fields, in vegetable gardens.

There are wild varieties of chicory and those that are cultivated.

The flowering parts of the plant and roots have medicinal properties.

The peculiarity of chicory is that it begins to bloom after a few years, and at first - in the first year - only a basal rosette of leaves develops. Over time, the root becomes so long that it sometimes goes one and a half meters deep into the soil.

How and when to harvest flowers

• Chicory flowers are collected at the time of mass flowering from June to September.
• Chicory grass is harvested away from roadways, factories, and garbage dumps.
• For collection, choose dry, settled weather.
• Flowers are harvested when the dew has dried on the plants.
• For drying, only the apical flowering parts of the plant without rough stems are cut off.

How to dry chicory herb

Cut stems are dried in the shade, under a canopy or in attics under iron roof, laying it out in a thin layer on the fabric.

The raw materials are stirred periodically so that they dry evenly. Drying is considered complete if the stems break well.

Store raw materials in canvas bags or paper bags in a dry, dark, cool place. Shelf life is one year.

How and when to harvest chicory roots

Chicory roots are harvested either early spring or late autumn when the above-ground part of the plant begins to die. It is at this time that it accumulates in the roots maximum amount useful substances, because the plant is preparing for winter.

Since the roots of chicory are long, they are not pulled out, but dig up. Then the roots are cleared of soil, quickly washed in cold water, thin side roots are removed and laid out on the grass for initial drying.

Then the roots are cut crosswise into small pieces, and thick roots are also cut lengthwise before this.

The roots are laid out on cloth and dried in a ventilated area or under a canopy.

But it is still better to dry the roots in a dryer or oven at a temperature not exceeding 60°. The oven door must be kept half open to prevent the raw materials from steaming. When the roots break with a bang, stop drying.

Store the roots V cardboard boxes, boxes or paper bags in a dry place for three years.

Dried chicory roots are an excellent coffee substitute. The fact is that regular coffee is contraindicated for many due to the presence of caffeine in it. There is no caffeine in the chicory drink, but there are a lot of other useful substances, the properties of which were mentioned above. In addition, the chicory drink does not irritate the stomach, does not have a stimulating effect on the heart and nervous system, but stimulates the appetite.

To obtain a chicory drink, prepared fresh chicory roots are cut into pieces 1 cm thick and dried at a temperature of 100° for about 12 hours.

The dried roots are then roasted in a dry frying pan until they become coffee-colored. When chicory roots are fried, the essential oil chicoreol is formed, which gives the drink a unique aroma.

After cooling, the roots are ground in a coffee grinder, blender or ground in a mortar.

Chicory coffee can be prepared both without additives and with grain components, adding barley, soy, rowan, oats, rye, dried carrots, fried almond kernels, fried acorn kernels to chicory. The percentage of additives and their quantity may vary.

How to make chicory coffee

Ground chicory or the prepared mixture is poured into hot water, bring to a boil. The drink is allowed to brew and poured into cups, adding milk and sugar to taste. For one glass of water, take 1 teaspoon of the prepared mixture.