Health benefits and harms of chicory: how much per day and how to use

Despite the fact that chicory has been known for more than two centuries, this drink has only begun to gain popularity in recent years. Its tart flavor is very similar to coffee, but it is made from the roasted root of the chicory plant instead of coffee beans.

Chicory is popular among those trying to reduce their caffeine intake. In addition, chicory is used as a medicinal drink for many purposes, including reducing inflammation, lowering blood sugar levels, and improving digestive health. However, chicory can also cause adverse side effects.

In this article we will take a detailed look at the scientifically proven beneficial properties of chicory, as well as contraindications for its use.

Chicory flower

Chemical composition of chicory and calorie content

Chicory is one of the most beneficial medicinal plants for the body, but before taking it it will be useful to familiarize yourself with the calorie content and composition. Liquid calorie content

(thickened fried chicory extract) per 100 g - 263.8 kcal (1102.7 kJ), as well as:

• Carbohydrates - 64.0 g
• Fats - 0.0 g
• Proteins - 1.95 g

Calorie content of chicory root
per 100 g is 378 kcal, and also:

• Carbohydrates - 56.0 g
• Fats - 0.0 g
• Proteins - 9.8 g

Calorie content of raw chicory greens
per 100 g is 23 kcal (96 kJ), and also:

• Carbohydrates - 3.5─4.7 g
• Fats - 0.3 g
• Proteins - 1.7 g
• Fiber - 4.0 g
• Water - 92 g
• Sugar - 0.7 g

Vitamins:

• A - 286 mcg
• E - 2.26 mg
• K - 297.6 mcg
• C - 24 mg
• B1 - 0.06 mg
• B2 - 0.1 mg
• B5 - 1.16 mg
• B6 - 0.11 mg
• B9 - 110 mcg
• RR - 0.5 mg
• B4 - 12.8 mg

Macro- and microelements:

• Potassium - 420 mg
• Calcium - 100 mg
• Magnesium - 30 mg
• Sodium - 45 mg
• Phosphorus - 47 mg
• Iron - 0.9 mg
• Manganese - 0.43 mg
• Copper - 0.3 mg
• Selenium - 03 mcg
• Zinc - 0.42 mg

Recipes for a healthy chicory drink for diseases

To improve the taste and medicinal qualities of chicory, you still need to go to the pharmacy and buy different herbs. Then check if there is a thermos in the house to infuse these ingredients. There are no exact standards for drinking chicory drink; each person reacts differently.

If there are no diseases contraindicated for the use of chicory, then the drink can be consumed every day up to three glasses, preferably drunk in the morning.

In Europe, the benefits and taste of chicory have long been appreciated, and each country has its own recipes. In Latvia they like to add apple juice or honey to a cold drink, in Estonia they add various fruit teas, and in Belgium they even make casseroles with cheese and apples. .

So, here are the magic combinations:

• With motherwort for the flu, drink half a glass before meals;
• With eucalyptus for cough, rinse every hour;
• With thyme for tachycardia;
• With parsley to strengthen blood vessels;
• With honey to remove bad cholesterol;
• With flax seeds for constipation, drink before meals;
• With lemon and honey for weight loss, drink before breakfast;
• With yarrow and tansy for parasites.

Everyone will love the drink, for guests with cloves and honey, for children with whipped milk.

Basically, chicory is drunk like coffee according to this classic recipe: take two teaspoons of ground chicory root, add a glass of water and boil for 15 minutes, then strain through a strainer and leave for 5-10 minutes, if desired, you can add sugar and the drink is ready to drink.

The benefits of chicory for the human body

This medicinal plant contains a large number of nutrients that ensure the vital activity and proper functioning of the human body.

Effect on the nervous system

Chicory contains a large amount of B vitamins, which normalizes the functioning of the nervous system. Gives a charge of vivacity, restores energy, helps to lift the mood, while also acting as a sedative.

Effect on the digestive system

This plant contains the polysaccharide inulin, which helps improve digestion, normalizes intestinal microflora, prevents the development of dysbacteriosis, and helps get rid of constipation. This substance will also control blood sugar levels, so it helps make you feel better when diagnosing diabetes. A properly prepared chicory drink can be consumed daily and become an excellent alternative to coffee.

Effect on the cardiovascular system

Chicory contains large amounts of magnesium and potassium. These substances are simply indispensable for the proper functioning of the heart, and also help alleviate well-being in a variety of diseases associated with this organ. A drink made from chicory helps normalize the heartbeat, lowers bad cholesterol and dilates blood vessels. Therefore, this plant is useful for patients with hypertension, when diagnosing coronary heart disease, tachycardia, etc.

Effect on the immune system

Provided you regularly eat chicory or a drink made from this plant, the beneficial substances included in its composition help strengthen the immune system and resist a variety of infections, viruses and colds. The body is effectively cleansed of toxins and waste, and the metabolic process is improved. It is these qualities of chicory that have made it so popular among those who want to lose weight.

For skin diseases

Helps relieve a variety of skin diseases, because chicory has an excellent bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect. Alcohol tinctures and decoctions are made with it, added to the bath and can be used during the treatment of chicken pox, acne, eczema, vitiligo, diathesis, seborrhea, psoriasis, furunculosis, dermatitis and other skin diseases.

For diabetes and obesity

Chicory contains a substance called inulin, so it is simply indispensable for diabetes and obesity, as it helps speed up the metabolic process, and therefore helps in the fight against excess weight. But it does not cure diabetes!

For vision

To restore and improve vision, it is recommended to mix carrots with chicory juice, add a little parsley and celery. This remedy has a positive effect on the muscular system of the eyes, preventing the development of various defects and pathologies.

During pregnancy

A drink made from chicory has a positive effect on the liver, improves and normalizes appetite, and prevents heartburn, which often affects expectant mothers. It helps ease and improve the functioning of the intestines and heart, so the woman will feel great throughout pregnancy. However, such a drink can only be taken if the doctor allows it, if there are no contraindications. It is useful for pregnant women to drink milk, to which you can add a small amount of crushed chicory powder, the resulting drink is not only tasty, but also valuable for health. Thanks to the action of chicory, milk will be absorbed much better. Scientists from Australia have conducted a number of studies that have shown that chicory increases the number of red blood cells, perfectly cleanses the blood, so the child will receive more nutrients and vitamins.

What is chicory (chicory coffee)

Chicory is a flowering plant in the dandelion family that is characterized by a tough, hairy stem, light purple flowers and leaves that are commonly used in salads.

Chicory (chicory coffee or chicory coffee) is a drink made using the roots of the chicory plant, which are roasted, ground and brewed in a similar way to a coffee drink.

Chicory coffee is similar to natural coffee, but has an aroma that is often described as slightly woody and nutty. It is used either alone or mixed with coffee to complement its aroma.

Although the history of chicory coffee is not entirely clear, it is believed that chicory coffee was first brewed in the 1800s in France during a time of huge coffee shortage. Desperate for such a substitute, people began mixing chicory roots into their coffee to enrich and complement the coffee's flavor. Years later, during the Civil War, chicory also became widely used in New Orleans when the city experienced a coffee shortage after Union naval blockades cut off access to one of its ports.

Today, chicory coffee can still be found in many parts of the world and is often used as a caffeine-free coffee alternative.

Summary Chicory coffee is a drink made using chicory root that has been roasted, ground and brewed. It is believed that it began to be used during a coffee shortage in France in the 1800s, but today it remains popular throughout the world.

Useful properties of chicory

This plant helps with various ailments, and can be taken internally or externally in the form of lotions and compresses:

1. The plant helps remove toxins from the body, therefore it has a positive effect on the liver and helps with its various diseases.
2. Chicory is used for gastritis, anemia, cholecystitis, enteritis, loss of strength, spleen diseases and constipation.
3. Useful for diseases of the cardiovascular system, because it helps improve heart function. Recommended for use when diagnosing hypertension.
4. It acts as a relaxing and sedative, so it is useful for neuroses or sleep problems.
5. Can be used to prepare a decoction for lotions and added to the bath for skin infections, rashes, and allergies.
6. It has a choleretic and diuretic effect, therefore it is prescribed for cholelithiasis, cystitis, cirrhosis, hepatitis and nephritis.
7. Doctors in India use chicory as an additive in toothpaste because it has anti-inflammatory effects. Such a remedy becomes simply irreplaceable in the development of periodontal disease.

How to choose instant chicory

In order not to make a mistake when buying chicory, you need to remember the following rules:

1. It is necessary to ensure that the product is packaged in a vacuum sealed package.

2. The product should contain the root, not an extract with flavorings or powdered ingredients.

3. A high-quality mixture should not have lumps.

4. To check the quality, dilute the powder with a spoon of water and drink. A quality drink has a bitter taste with a sensation of sweetness.

5. Some manufacturers mix chicory with crushed cereal grains. Sometimes rosehip, ginseng, cinnamon, and lemongrass powder are added. Sometimes even chicory is mixed with crushed acorns.

The buyer may have contraindications to any ingredient. To test, chicory powder is diluted in water and a few drops of iodine are added. If the chicory is of high quality, the liquid does not turn bluish-violet. If the water is colored, then crushed cereal grains have been added to the product.

Instant chicory for women

Harm of chicory and contraindications

Like any other medicinal plant, chicory can cause harm to health, so its uncontrolled use is strictly prohibited. There are some contraindications:

• Chicory can provoke a fairly strong allergic reaction, so you should consult a doctor before taking it.
• The presence of individual intolerance to the plant and individual substances included in its composition.
• The plant causes dilatation of blood vessels, therefore it cannot be used in the presence of various vascular diseases, with the development of varicose veins.
• Usually this drink does not lead to overstimulation, but in some people it can cause overexcitement and insomnia.
• You should not take chicory if you are diagnosed with asthmatic bronchitis, a cough that has become chronic, or if you have diseases of the respiratory system, because the plant can intensify a coughing attack.
• You should not overuse chicory and take it in unlimited quantities. This plant, if taken in excess, can cause problems in the digestive system.

The drink is contraindicated if you have one of the following problems:

1. Individual intolerance.
2. Phlebeurysm.
3. Chronical bronchitis.
4. Asthma.
5. Stomach ulcer.

Contraindications for chicory

Any product has contraindications and chicory is no exception; it can also have side effects. We must remember that any drink in large doses turns into poison; frequent consumption of chicory can become boring or addictive.

Please note that chicory is not recommended:

• Some women should not consume chicory during pregnancy, as it increases the tone of the uterus, which can lead to the risk of miscarriage;
• Under no circumstances should mothers consume chicory when they are breastfeeding their baby; chicory can be toxic to the baby;
• For hemorrhoids and problems with veins, as it dilates blood vessels;
• Antibiotics do not get along with chicory;
• If you have low blood pressure, it is better to avoid it; it has a diuretic effect;
• If there is an excess of vitamin C, it can be harmful;
• Asthma or bronchitis cannot be cured by drinking this drink;
• Children under 2 years old should not be given chicory as food;
• If you are allergic to inulin, you should not risk it either.

https://youtu.be/mg0HDk3SEvE

Chicory for weight loss

When losing weight, chicory plays an important role, because a decoction prepared from the root of the plant helps speed up the metabolic process.
As a result, your body processes incoming food much easier and faster and does not allow fat to be deposited, turning it into energy. It is recommended to drink a drink made from chicory if you are obese, because it contains such a valuable substance for the human body as inulin, helping to lower blood sugar levels. The lower they are, the less hunger is felt, overeating is prevented, and the figure gradually returns to its previous shape. For weight loss, only the root of the plant can be used; if you mistakenly prepare a decoction from its flowers, the result will only increase hunger, and you will get the completely opposite result. It’s very easy to prepare such a healthy drink - just pour 1 tsp into the coffee maker. chicory powder and pour 500 g of water. The mixture is brought to a boil and boiled for about 6 minutes. As soon as the drink has cooled, it needs to be filtered and taken 2-3 times a day, half a glass.

Nutritionists advise replacing coffee with instant chicory, which can be taken for several months. This remedy brings the greatest benefit when drunk before starting a meal.

Chicory: what is it, types

What is chicory? Common chicory is a perennial plant with stiff stems and small blue flowers.

There is also a second type of herb - radicchio lettuce. The latter is used in cooking and is included in many cold appetizers. For these purposes, a cultivated two-year-old subspecies of chicory is grown. The so-called weed subspecies of chicory is grown for use as seasonings and drinks.

Photo: pixabay.com

What is chicory made from that is used as a drink? For these purposes, ground root of the plant is taken, which is subsequently fried. In addition, the root is also used as a spice in the preparation of main dishes and desserts.

Based on the method of processing the rhizome, the output is different versions of the product. There are three types of chicory:

• Liquid. It is a concentrated extract that is used as a flavoring agent.

It is added to confectionery products or sauces to add a piquant taste. In addition, the liquid extract is diluted with water and used as a remedy to cope with sleep disorders and stress.

• Ground. To produce this product, the root of the plant is dried in an oven and then ground into powder.

It is used to create a flavored drink. Ground chicory needs to be poured with water and left to steep. The benefit of chicory also lies in the fact that products based on it improve concentration and normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

• Soluble. This is the most difficult plant species to produce. To obtain a soluble product, the rhizome extract is sent to spray dryers, from which a powder emerges.

According to the characteristics, soluble chicory is the same natural product as the ground plant root or extract. However, it has a number of undoubted advantages. It does not require long infusion. In addition, it is much more convenient to store than the liquid version.

Types of chicory - which one is more convenient for you to choose!

Depending on the type of chicory, its effect on the body will be determined:

• Soluble chicory (powdered) - dilates blood vessels, has a positive effect on the nervous and circulatory system, and soothes. It’s as easy to prepare as instant coffee: dilute a teaspoon in 200-250 ml of boiling water.
• Liquid chicory - can be used in the treatment of diseases of the kidneys, liver, and spleen. Preparation: add one and a half or 1 tsp to 200-250 ml of boiling water.
• In coffee (soluble mixtures) - when added to this drink, it eliminates its negative effect on the body.
• In tea - helps in the fight against excess weight, normalizes metabolism, and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the heart.

A video about the beneficial properties and harms of chicory, as well as a couple of recipes with it: The benefits and harms of chicory have been discussed by doctors and nutritionists for a long time. Before using it, it is important to remember that this is a medicinal plant, so it cannot be abused and can only be taken after the doctor’s permission, if there are no contraindications. Chicory in small quantities is beneficial for health and helps with various diseases.

Chicory: use in medicine and cooking, contraindications

The drink is prohibited to be consumed in the following cases: cholelithiasis, varicose veins, persistent low blood pressure, lung disease, pregnancy, children under one year of age, ulcers and hemorrhoids.

Photo: pixabay.com

Since the plant saturates well and reduces appetite, chicory is widely used in medicine for weight loss. In addition, it is also used as a hypoglycemic agent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes . In folk medicine, a decoction of chicory is prepared for these purposes. The method for preparing it is as follows:

1. Take the dry root of the plant, chop it and add 1 liter of boiling water to two tablespoons of the ingredient.
2. Place the liquid on the stove and cook for 15 minutes on low gas.
3. Cool and strain.
4. Drink 100 ml three times a day before meals.

The plant will also help cope with colds. To strengthen your immune system , make this infusion:

1. Take one teaspoon each of chicory root and motherwort powder.
2. Add 500 ml water.
3. Leave for 15 minutes, then strain.
4. Drink 100 ml before meals.

The use of chicory is also effective in the fight against cough . The product is prepared as follows:

1. Grind three tablespoons of raisins in a blender.
2. Add one tablespoon of chicory powder and mix.
3. Add 250 ml of hot water and send the mixture to low gas. Cook for 10 minutes.
4. When the mixture has cooled, strain it and add one teaspoon of liquid honey.
5. Warm before use and take 2-3 times daily.

Thanks to its unique bitter-sweet taste, chicory is widely used in cooking. The salad type of plant is baked, boiled, or stewed. Ground is used as an aromatic spice. Let's look at the most popular recipes using this product:

Meat on chicory leaves

The dish is ideal for lunch and dinner. Thanks to many useful ingredients, in addition to chicory, the dish saturates the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals. To prepare, take the following products:

• minced pork and beef - 250 g each;
• chicory - 1 pc.;
• ginger root - 50 g;
• onion - half;
• celery stalks - 2 pcs.;
• garlic - 1 clove;
• sunflower oil - 2 tbsp. l.;
• paprika, salt and pepper - to taste.

The cooking process is as follows:

1. Peel the ginger root and grate it on a fine grater.
2. Cut the onion and garlic into small cubes.
3. Heat a frying pan with oil and add ginger with onions and garlic, add paprika and pepper. Fry until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Chop the celery into thin strips and add it to the frying pan with the vegetables, add the minced meat.
5. Add salt and mix the ingredients well.
6. Fry until the minced meat is golden brown.
7. Separate the chicory into individual leaves. Place on a plate and fill each with prepared minced meat.
8. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese on top. Serve to the table.

Salad with chicory and chicken

This cold appetizer has an unusual spicy taste. Even those who are not good at creating culinary masterpieces can cope with its preparation. The cooking process will take no more than 20 minutes. Prepare the following ingredients:

• chicory and lettuce - 1 pc.;
• tomatoes - 2 pcs.;
• hard cheese - 100 g;
• chicken fillet - 300 g;
• walnuts - 10 pieces;
• sunflower oil - 4 tbsp. l.;
• wine vinegar - 2 tbsp. l.;
• salt and pepper - to taste.

The salad is prepared as follows:

1. Finely chop the lettuce and chicory.
2. Chop the tomatoes into small slices.
3. Boil the chicken fillet and cut into strips, cheese into small cubes.
4. Heat a dry frying pan and fry the walnuts, then peel them and chop them with a knife.
5. In a convenient deep container, combine the endive, lettuce, fillet, tomatoes, cheese and nuts.
6. Start preparing the sauce. Mix sunflower oil with wine vinegar and season the salad.
7. Add ground pepper and salt to taste. Stir and invite guests to the table.

Photo: pixabay.com

What are the benefits of chicory?

In former times, this plant was called the herb for a hundred ailments. And today, flowers, leaves and stems, roots, that is, all parts of chicory that have certain medicinal properties, find their use in the fight against various diseases. Due to the high content of immunostimulating substances, the plant promotes the activation of metabolic processes and inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. The medicinal properties of chicory are very diverse, thanks to which it is used both in folk and official medicine. In addition, chicory has:

• diuretic and choleretic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• wound healing;
• vasodilators;
• antitumor properties.

Description of the plant

Common chicory is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Initially it grew in the Mediterranean, but gradually spread and thrived in temperate climates and even the tropics, although it does not like excessive humidity. Its natural habitats are forest edges, meadows, wastelands, along roads and in fields.

It is also grown for industrial purposes. Usually two types of plants are grown in the fields: ordinary and lettuce.

Common chicory root is used to produce an instant drink, and lettuce leaves are used to prepare salads or as a side dish.

The plant has a rigid, erect stem and a long, rod-shaped root. The leaves are oblong in shape with rounded ends. The flowers are quite large, reed-shaped, blue or pink. Each flower is on an individual stem.

https://youtu.be/HH-L9w6VCIM

Chemical composition of chicory

The fact that chicory brings undoubted benefits to the body is evident from its composition. It contains a large number of biologically active substances. Chicory root contains a huge amount of inulin - more than 60% of dry weight, as well as fructose, tannins and resins.

The leaves of the plant contain vitamin B4 - choline, which is required for the normal functioning of the liver, kidneys and brain.

It also contains carotene, vitamins C and B-list components, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, manganese. It contains slightly less zinc, copper and selenium, but is quite enough to replenish the daily requirement of these substances in the body.

https://youtu.be/Xv9hEuI6UfY

Contraindications

In the following cases, it is recommended to refrain from using the herb or drugs based on it:

• pregnancy period;
• lactation;
• allergic reactions (this is the main contraindication);
• individual intolerance;
• gallstones;
• children under 3 years old;
• Gastritis and ulcers.

These contraindications are a general list of recommendations. Before use, you should consult your doctor.

If possible, do not self-medicate. Take medications under the strict supervision of a doctor, according to direct recommendations and knowing individual contraindications.

Is it possible to give chicory to small children?

The benefits of chicory are great, so chicory will not bring any harm to children. Starting from one year, you can gradually introduce it into the diet. The first time, give it very carefully, as you may be allergic to chicory. If everything is fine, no rashes or other reactions have occurred, then you can sometimes pamper your baby with this instant drink.

True, babies do not yet have a need for the substances contained in chicory, so such a treat should be offered in limited quantities. Although, unfortunately, it happens that a child suffers from diabetes from an early age, then children simply need chicory as a supplier of inulin.

If your child doesn’t like coffee, then make him tea from the roots of the plant with honey. They need to be dug up, dried, thoroughly cleaned, ground in a coffee grinder and added to regular weak tea. How much to put depends on the child’s age and weight. It is better to consult a doctor on this issue.

Botanical description

Common chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a wild relative of endives, escarole and witloof. All of these plants belong to the Asteraceae (Asteraceae) family. Chicory, the photo of which is presented below, is a perennial herbaceous plant with a long, straight and fleecy stem, from 30 to 100 cm in height. Its root system is of a tap-type type, and the leaves are lanceolate, rough-hairy, and collected in a rosette in the root zone.

In the first year, only a rosette of leaves is formed, and in the second year, a stem is formed on which flowers are formed, and subsequently seeds. Flowering period: from June to August. Flowers in most cases have blue-blue petals, less often they are painted white or pink. Flowers open early in the morning, around 4-5 o'clock, and close around three in the afternoon. By autumn, chicory produces fruits - prismatic achenes; more than 3,000 seeds can be obtained from one bush.

Chicory is widespread throughout the European territory of Russia, Western Siberia and Belarus. It is also found in Africa, South and North America, Australia and East Asia. It has many popular names: shkerda, petrovy batoga, black companion, sickle.

The plant is unpretentious and happily colonizes roadsides, wastelands and ditches. Today, since chicory is a herb whose medicinal properties have been studied quite well, it is specially cultivated. The root and the entire herbaceous part of the flower are used to make preparations and medicines.

Poisoning with exacerbation and the use of chicory is undesirable

In addition, the use of chicory for liver diseases is undesirable. And since it wildly increases appetite, it is not suitable for overweight people.

In addition, excessive consumption of chicory coffee can exacerbate gallbladder diseases. In addition, chicory root contains a huge amount of calcium oxalates, which is why it is prohibited if you have urolithiasis or if you are predisposed to it.

It should be noted that even a practically healthy person can only eat foods that contain oxalates for a short time.

And for people with rheumatoid arthritis, gout and kidney disease, especially kidney stones, foods containing calcium oxalates are the most natural poison. Indeed, according to doctors, 80% of kidney stones appear precisely due to the influence of calcium oxalate, because its crystals clog the kidney ducts.

It turns out that chicory is an absolutely harmless plant.

https://youtu.be/FHNT5vVCyCo