Spring protection of garden plants from pests and diseases. Healing herb Chicory: beneficial properties, contraindications

Perennial plant of the Asteraceae or Asteraceae family.

The culture can be found in many countries with temperate climate: Australia, Africa, America and India, on the European continent. In the vastness of the SND, it is found in large parts of Ukraine, Russia, in particular Siberia and the Caucasus.

Due to its many beneficial properties, chicory is widely used in folk medicine and cooking. Infusions, decoctions and teas are prepared based on the herb.

Chicory is found on sale in different states: As a dried herb, in liquid form, in prepared tea bags and as a flavoring.

Chicory grows along field roads, along the banks of rivers, in fields and meadows. Many people consider the plant a weed, unaware of its beneficial qualities.

Chicory has also been cultivated for quite a long time. In the CIS, since about 1900.

Another name is “Petrov’s batogs”. They use the above-ground part and the root; by the way, the root has many more beneficial properties.

There are two main types of plants: salad and ordinary.

Description: A plant with a straight stem, up to 1-1.2 m high. Easy to identify by its bright blue flowers. The stems and leaves contain milky sap.

The stem is covered with small hairs. Alternately on it are single-colored green lanceolate-shaped leaves, pointed at the end. The flowers are blue, less often pink, located on the tops of the branches and 2-4 pcs. in the axils of the upper leaves.

The flowers form an inflorescence. The fruit is an achene.

The flowering period is from June to September. It is at this time that many bees and other pollinators are attracted due to the large amount of nectar.

Growing chicory at home

Any soil (preferably nutritious) and well-lit area is suitable for growing chicory. Chicory is heat-loving, but can survive minor frosts. Acidic, marshy soils are not suitable. Propagated by seeds or by dividing the bush.

The formation of a plant takes place in several stages over a couple of years.

In the first year, a root rosette is formed, and a root crop is formed in the soil.

In the second year, seeds begin to form. They are sown in loose soil, deepened by 3-5 cm.
With the appearance of the first 3 leaves, young seedlings are thinned out with the addition of fertilizer based on superphosphate, ammonium nitrate and potassium sulfur.

In dry climates, or during dry summers, the bushes need to be watered to improve the yield.

From the moment of sowing to the ripening of the fruit, at least 5 months pass.

Collection and preparation of chicory

For medicinal purposes, the root of wild and cultivated species is used. In the fall, after flowering, the roots are dug up, shaken off the ground, washed under running water, separated from the stems, laid out in a well-ventilated place until the raw materials are completely dry, turning them over periodically. If necessary, the root can be cut lengthwise into pieces. You can use electric dryers at a temperature of 50-60° C. For storage, use cool rooms.

The ground part is also dried separately. During the flowering period, cut stems up to 30 cm high and lay them out on a flat surface in the shade with good ventilation.

When using drying, the temperature should not exceed 35-40° C. Turn the grass over periodically. Store in tightly closed glass containers. You cannot use paper bags, since the grass absorbs moisture and over time it forms one solid lump.

To obtain special aromatic additives in cooking, the variety is cultivated.

Useful properties of chicory

The calorie content of the raw material is 17 kcal, where proteins are 8 kcal, fats are 2 kcal, carbohydrates are 8 kcal.

The composition includes the following vitamins and microelements:

• vitamin C
• vitamin B group
• resins
• potassium
• calcium
• sodium
• magnesium
• iron
• organic acids
• carotene
• tannins

Chicory is an important food for diabetics and contains 60 to 70% insulin.

In addition to diabetics, the root is useful for the disorder digestive system, restores metabolism in the body, restores intestinal microflora. Instant chicory perfectly replaces coffee in color and taste, and does not contain sugar or caffeine.

Caffeine is prohibited for use by people with high blood pressure, diabetes and stomach disorders, pathologies and diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system.

Caffeine causes arrhythmia, and in large quantities leads to serious chronic diseases.

Eating large amounts of sugar leads to excess weight. Insulin is a polymer of fructose that does not increase blood sugar levels.

Treatment with chicory

In ancient Egypt, chicory was used as an antidote for bites poisonous snakes and insects, on its basis, people knew how to prepare healing potions for stomach disorders and eye inflammation.

In addition to treatment, chicory is useful to take as a preventive measure.

The grass is an excellent dietary product due to its high fiber content.

It has proven its effectiveness in the treatment of gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, liver, gall bladder, and dysbacteriosis.

Normalizes the functioning of the heart and heart rate, slowing it down, promotes vasodilation and removes cholesterol.

The root contains glycosin, intibin, which restores the functioning of the central nervous system, reducing tachycardia.

Included in dietary products and weight loss complexes.
An excellent diuretic, especially for kidney disease, removes toxins from the body.
In addition to being used in folk medicine, the herb and root are used to prepare antipyretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Tinctures are used to treat skin, psoriasis, furunculosis, remove acne, eczema, heal wounds and bites, and restore vision.

Chicory juice is used in various recipes along with other products, which we will discuss later.

The benefits and harms of chicory

The plant is used for various diseases as a preventive measure. Will consider each case separately.

During pregnancy

The plant can be taken as a preventive measure as a tonic, thanks to various beneficial microelements.

Drinks remove waste and toxins from the body, relieve swelling, normalize fluid balance in the body, relieve nausea and prevent heartburn.

Chicory stimulates bowel movements and increases appetite. But you should remember that any use of medicinal herbs, including chicory, should be taken in limited quantities, after consulting with a doctor.

During pregnancy, the decoction cleanses the blood of various impurities that can be dangerous to the fetus.

Taking infusions during lactation

Gets rid of excess weight

The root of the plant has unique properties removal from the body, in particular from blood, waste and toxins. All this contributes to weight loss.

In addition to the complex developed by nutritionists, which includes chicory, you can use individual individual recipes.

Recipe: 1 teaspoon of crushed root, pour 500 ml of water and boil over low heat for 10-15 minutes. Then cover, let it brew for 20-30 minutes, strain and take 100 grams 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals.

In addition to weight loss, you will soon notice improved well-being and lightness in your stomach. The herb reduces sweating and restores the liver.

Chicory baths

Baths are great for cellulite. Using a thermos, 2 tbsp. l. Pour boiling water over the herbs and leave for 1 hour. Pour the entire container into the bath and take 20 minutes every other day for 2 months.

Decoction for strengthening hair

50 grams of herbs and roots, pour 500 ml of boiling water, boil for 20 minutes, then cover and leave for 3-5 hours. The finished decoction is filtered and rubbed into the hair. After 15 minutes, wash off hair under running water.

Making a drink from chicory

You can buy commercial chicory in a dry state, or prepare it yourself from the roots.
Buy the roots of the plant, rinse well under running water and dry.

Place in a frying pan and fry over low heat until all the moisture has evaporated. The root will emit a specific smell with a slight bitterness. Chop the finished roots, place them in a container and pour boiling water over them. 1 tsp. raw materials, pour a glass of boiling water, bring to a boil and cook for 3-5 minutes, then, covered, let it brew a little. Use the decoction with milk, with the addition of lemon (a few drops of juice) and sugar.

Chicory-based recipes

• For superficial treatment: 50 grams of grass and roots, chop and pour 250 ml of boiling water. Let sit covered for 20 minutes. Strain the broth and can be used as an eye lotion. Washing is excellent for conjunctivitis. The decoction is rubbed on sore joints.
• Preparation of tincture for surface use: 20 grams of roots and grass, chop and pour 100 grams of alcohol. Close tightly and leave in a dark place for 1 week. The tincture is used for various skin diseases.
• Juice for anemia: Squeeze juice from fresh leaves and mix with milk in a 1:1 ratio. Take 1 tsp. 3 times a day before meals. The course of treatment is 1-1.5 months.
• Preparation of a choleretic agent: chopped dandelion and chicory roots, mint leaves, agrimony and tropholi 50 grams each, mix. 2 tbsp. l. collection, pour 500 ml of boiling water and let it brew for 2-3 hours. Drink this amount over 2 days, dividing 3-4 times a day.

Contraindications

Chicory can cause harm to the body under some circumstances, so always consult your doctor first.

It is prohibited to take any infusions and decoctions orally for varicose veins, vascular disease, bronchitis, hemorrhoids, cough, asthma.

Large amounts of ascorbic acid can cause allergies and skin rashes.
It is not recommended for people with mental disorders.

How to buy chicory correctly

In all its appearance and taste, chicory resembles coffee, but there is one big difference, it does not contain caffeine and sugar, so the drink serves as a coffee substitute for diabetics and people with vascular and heart diseases, and hypertension.

Only real soluble chicory is useful, which contains a large amount of inulin, without any impurities.

You need to buy chicory in sealed packaging, dry and crumbly. Give preference to tin cans.

But many manufacturers add flavorings, various herbal additives, soy, or acorns to natural chicory, and sometimes even replace it altogether. All benefits are contained exclusively in the root, and not in the extract.

Low-quality chicory is very bitter and unpleasant in taste. When dissolved in water, you should feel a specific aroma and a slight pleasant bitterness, inherent only to chicory.

Syn: roadside grass, blue flower, Peter's batogs, Peter's rods, Peter's whip, roadside cornflower, sickle, shcherbak.

Perennial herbaceous plant with a thickened multi-headed fusiform root and ligulate flowers blue color. It has choleretic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial effects, lowers blood sugar and improves appetite.

Ask the experts a question

Flower formula

The formula of the common chicory flower is: CH0B(5)T(5)P(2).

In medicine

Common chicory is a valuable raw material for obtaining medicines. In domestic official medicine, its roots are used, less often - the aerial part and inflorescences. The milky juice of chicory contains biologically active bitter substances that reflexively enhance the peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract, the secretion of gastric and intestinal juice. They help increase appetite and timely bowel movements. It is known that common chicory has an antiseptic and astringent effect, it is used as a choleretic and diuretic, it has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Biologically active substances contained in common chicory have a positive effect on lipid metabolism. Chicory preparations are successfully used in the fight against obesity, liver diseases, atherosclerosis, hypoacid gastritis, tachycardia, arrhythmia, nephritis and as a strong natural antioxidant. An infusion of chicory inflorescences has a cardiotonic, hepatoprotective and mild sedative effect.

Common chicory exhibits a pronounced therapeutic effect in the treatment of diabetes mellitus and its prevention: it reduces blood glucose levels and normalizes the metabolic process in the body. This property is directly related to the high content of the organic substance inulin in the roots of common chicory (up to 49%). Inulin is a natural sugar substitute that helps remove toxins and waste substances from the body. Based on chicory root, drinks are produced for the dietary nutrition of diabetic patients.

Contraindications and side effects

Preparations of common chicory do not have significant side effects and are not toxic, but their prolonged use or incorrect dosage can significantly increase the secretion of gastric juice and bile. Chicory is contraindicated for people with stomach and duodenal ulcers; it is prescribed with caution for high acidity and diseases of the nervous system, accompanied by increased excitability. Common chicory is contraindicated in patients with oxalate diathesis, as it can provoke the discharge of sand. If you have an individual intolerance or an allergic reaction, it is not recommended to use chicory for medicinal purposes or as food.

It is important to know that drinks based on chicory root lower blood pressure, dilate blood vessels, and affect heart rate. Therefore, experts recommend avoiding their excessive consumption to avoid unpleasant consequences.

In cooking

Dried and roasted chicory roots are a coffee substitute; they are also added to natural coffee to improve it. taste qualities. Chicory root is a valuable raw material for preparing dietary products for diabetics; it is also widely used in Food Industry: it is used to flavor confectionery shops and bakery products, fruit and berry tea, added as a seasoning to meat or game. Chicory roots can be used to produce alcohol, a thick syrup is made from them, and added fresh to vegetable salads. Young shoots and chicory leaves are also used in the salad; they give the dish a special piquant taste.

In Latvia, chicory root is added to coffee, and it is used to prepare a cold drink with apple juice, lemon and honey. In Belgium, chicory roots are baked in wine with cheese and apples. In European countries, a leafy variety of common chicory (witloof) is also grown for culinary purposes, which has a pleasant taste and slight bitterness.

Chicory is an excellent honey plant. In humid weather and during rains, the flowers secrete a lot of blue nectar. From 1 hectare of chicory you can get up to 100 kg of honey.

In gardening

Common chicory is an unpretentious plant, but with sufficient soil moisture and good lighting it grows and develops much faster. Prefers light alkaline soil, although it can also grow on poor, dry soil. Gardeners prefer to grow the cultivated form of common chicory - it is taller and more powerful compared to wild chicory.

Classification

The species Common chicory is included in the genus Chicory (Latin Cichorium) of the Asteraceae family (Latin Asteraceae) of the order Asterales. Asteraceae (lat. Asteraceae), or Compositae (lat. Compositae) - one of the largest families dicotyledonous plants, it includes 32,913 species, grouped into 1,911 genera, distributed throughout the globe and represented in all climatic zones. The chicory genus includes up to 11 species that grow in temperate and subtropical zones of both hemispheres. From the point of view of medicine and pharmacy Special attention deserves Common chicory (wild) - C. intybus L.

Botanical description

Common chicory is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Compositae family, grayish-green in color, with a thickened (in the upper part 3-4 cm in diameter) multi-headed spindle-shaped root up to 1.5 m long. All parts of the plant contain milky sap. The stem is single, erect (up to 150 cm in height), branched, covered with sparse hairs. Leaves are alternate, basal, collected in a rosette, pinnately incised, pubescent on the underside, narrowed towards the base into a petiole, stem leaves are alternate, sharply toothed, sessile, upper leaves lanceolate, entire. The flowers are blue, less often pink or white, ligulate, collected in numerous single or several baskets sitting on short peduncles. The formula of the common chicory flower is CH0B(5)T(5)P(2).

The fruit of common chicory is a prismatic, irregularly wedge-shaped achene with a short tuft of membranous membranes. It blooms from June to early September, the fruits ripen in August-September. Common chicory propagates by seeds and vegetatively from the tap root.

Spreading

Common chicory is found in the temperate and tropical climates of Eurasia, from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean countries, from British Isles to Eastern Siberia and India in the south. The plant is also found in North Africa, less often in South Africa, North and South America, New Zealand, Australia. In Russia, common chicory is widespread in the European part, the Caucasus, and Siberia.

Common chicory grows in forest clearings, meadows, fields, grassy slopes, along the slopes of ravines and steep river banks, near roads, in wastelands and near populated areas.

Regions of distribution on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

For medicinal purposes, chicory roots are most often used, less often young shoots with flowers. Chicory roots are harvested in late autumn: they are dug up, thoroughly cleaned of adhering soil, the above-ground parts are cut off with a sharp knife, washed in cold running water, if necessary, cut into several pieces and laid out in shady, well-ventilated places for drying. Also, prepared chicory roots are dried in special dryers and ovens at a temperature of 50°C until brownish-gray. Finished raw materials are stored in dry, cool rooms with good ventilation.

The flowering grass of common chicory is harvested in July. The tops of stems 30 cm long are cut off and laid out thin layer on a flat surface and dry. The drying process can be carried out both outdoors (in the shade) and in well-ventilated areas or special dryers (at a temperature of 40°C).

Chemical composition

Many biologically active substances have been found in common chicory active ingredients. The leaves and roots of chicory contain a fairly large amount of inulin polysaccharide, tannins, protein substances, organic acids, intibin glycoside, vitamins (ascorbic acid, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin). The milky juice of common chicory contains lactucin, lactupicrin, triterpene taraxasterol, hydroxycinnamic acids (chicoric or 2,3-dicaffeyltartaric acid), essential oil, choline, rubber. Chicory flowers contain coumarin glycosides, and the seeds contain 15-28% fatty oil.

When chicory roots are dried and fried at a temperature of 180°C, inulin is hydrolyzed, the fructose content increases (from 2 to 20%), the glycoside intibin is destroyed, due to which the taste of chicory loses its excessive bitterness. During the heating process, fructose caramelizes and gives the chicory roots a rich Brown color, the essential oil of chicoreol is formed, which subsequently determines the taste and aroma of the future product.

Pharmacological properties

Preparations based on common chicory have anti-inflammatory, choleretic, diuretic, antibacterial, and hypoglycemic effects. The use of chicory herbal preparations stimulates appetite, improves the functioning of the entire digestive system, they are prescribed for colitis, gastritis and enteritis.

Extract and decoction of chicory roots, due to their ability to reduce blood sugar levels, can be successfully used for the treatment and prevention of diabetes mellitus. early stage. A decoction of young chicory shoots is useful for diseases of the gallbladder, liver, kidneys and urinary system. An infusion of chicory flowers has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system and is used to normalize the heart rate.

Chicory preparations are used in complex therapy for diseases endocrine system, metabolic disorders, skin diseases and excess weight. Chicory is able to remove toxins from the body; thanks to its diuretic properties, it removes excess fluid and prevents the development of edema. Known positive impact chicory on the human immune system, thanks to its general strengthening properties.

Use in folk medicine

In domestic and foreign folk medicine, chicory is especially popular. A decoction of chicory roots is used as a choleretic agent, for diseases of the gallbladder, for cholelithiasis, for liver diseases, as a diuretic, for diseases of the urinary system. A decoction of chicory roots is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases; it is taken to improve digestion and increase appetite, for dyspepsia, gastritis, constipation, diseases of the spleen and pancreas. It is known to use a decoction of chicory roots in the treatment of helminthic infestations, diabetes mellitus, anemia, asthenia, and scurvy. Externally (in the form of baths, applications, lotions), the decoction is used for various skin diseases - eczema, urticaria, psoriasis, seboroid dermatitis, neurodermatitis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, acne and furunculosis.

An infusion is prepared from the aerial part of the plant, which is used as a means of stimulating the appetite and normalizing the digestive process. An infusion from the shoots of common chicory has choleretic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, diuretic effects, it is actively used in the treatment of gastritis, gastroenteritis, dyspepsia, hepatitis, nephritis, cholelithiasis, diabetes mellitus, nervous disorders. External use of an infusion from the aerial part of chicory is effective for acne vulgaris, eczema, furunculosis, ulcers, purulent wounds and cuts.

A decoction and infusion are made from the inflorescences of common chicory, which are used in the treatment of neurological diseases, eye infections, dermatitis, and for cosmetic purposes. The juice is squeezed out of chicory flowers and used as a choleretic agent. Dried chicory flowers are added to tonic herbal teas.

Historical reference

Chicory has been considered a medicinal plant since ancient times. The famous scientist and doctor of Central Asia, Avicenna, widely used chicory preparations in the treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, eye inflammation, and joint diseases (for example, gout). Residents Ancient Greece And Ancient Rome chicory was also known: it was eaten fresh, and potions were made from all parts of the plant to treat wounds, cuts, abrasions, insect bites, poisonous spiders and snakes.

In Europe, chicory began to be used as a coffee substitute in the Middle Ages. It is known that the first idea of ​​frying chicory roots and making a drink out of them was in Germany; later this practice spread throughout the world. There is also an opinion that Napoleon I Bonaparte contributed to the spread of the drink made from chicory roots. In 1806 -1814, the so-called “Decree on the Continental Blockade” was published, prohibiting the import into France foodstuffs from unfriendly states. Thanks to the decree, France was deprived of cane sugar and coffee, and there was an urgent need to replace them with at least something. Cane sugar was replaced with beet sugar, and the remaining coffee in the country was mixed in a 1:1 ratio with roasted chicory roots.

IN Russian Empire The first chicory plantations were planted in 1800 in the Yaroslavl province. To this day, the Yaroslavl region remains a center for the cultivation and processing of chicory on an industrial scale.

Literature

1. Tsvelev N.N. Genus 1632. Chicory - Cichorium // Flora of the USSR. In 30 volumes / Started under the leadership and editor-in-chief of academician. V. L. Komarova; Ed. volumes by E. G. Bobrov and N. N. Tsvelev. - M.-L.: Publishing House of the USSR Academy of Sciences, 1964. - T. XXIX. - pp. 14-20. - 796 s. -2200 copies
2. Medicinal plants of the meadow. - M.: Izobr. art, 1993. - pp. 60-61.
3. Dudchenko L.G., Kozyakov A.S., Krivenko V.V. Spicy-aromatic and spicy-flavoring plants: Handbook / Responsible. ed. K. M. Sytnik. - K.: Naukova Dumka, 1989. - 304 p. - 100,000 copies. - ISBN 5-12-000483-0.
4. Gubanov, I. A. et al. 1307. Cichorium intybus L. - Common chicory // Illustrated plant guide Central Russia. In 3 volumes - M.: Scientific T. ed. KMK, Institute of Technology. research, 2004. - T. 3. Angiosperms (dicotyledonous: dicotyledonous). - P. 371. - ISBN 5-87317-163-7.

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Description of the species and distribution

Common chicory is a herbaceous perennial plant. The chicory root is spindle-shaped and very fleshy and large (up to one and a half meters), releasing a milky juice when cut.

The erect stem of chicory has a ribbed surface, sometimes reaches a height of 120 centimeters, and is very branched.
Chicory leaves are collected in rosettes, the basal leaves have a notched, pinnately divided or weakly lobed structure, tapering towards the base. The mid-stem leaves are sessile, lanceolate, alternate with sharply toothed edges and broad basis, and the upper leaves are more solid and have a lanceolate shape.

Bisexual chicory flowers are located in baskets, always singly at the tops of the plant and in the axils of the upper leaves. Chicory flowers have a blue tint, although there are white and pinkish varieties, the petals are reed-shaped with 5 teeth. Period abundant flowering falls in June-September. After flowering, a fruit is formed - an achene, usually triangular or pentagonal. Its length is small, only two to three millimeters, slightly oblong and has a brown or lighter shade.

Common chicory is an excellent honey plant. He also reacts very strongly to the presence sunlight, so after five in the evening it is very difficult to find open chicory flowers. Common chicory grows almost everywhere: it can be found in the European and Asian parts of the Eurasian continent, in Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. Very often, chicory is found in meadows, along roads, ditches, and sometimes forms quite abundant thickets.

Collection and preparation

For medicinal purposes, chicory roots are mainly used; herbs, namely the flowers and tops of the plant, are less commonly used. Harvesting of roots is carried out in autumn period. They are dug up and washed cold water, get wet from excess moisture. Afterwards, the roots are cut into pieces, including lengthwise, and laid to dry. Drying the roots can be done as follows: outdoors, and using drying equipment.

Ready dried roots can be stored for up to two years.
Chicory grass is harvested during the flowering period of the plant. To do this, cut off the upper parts of the stems (about 30 cm in size). Chicory herb can also be dried outdoors or in dryers. The shelf life of chicory grass is less than the roots, only one year.

Medicinal properties

Traditional medicine has found quite a large number of uses for chicory. Thus, the herb, roots and seeds are used to treat the stomach, liver, intestines, bladder, spleen, and preparations based on chicory are used as a sedative for hysteria and epilepsy, and also treat hemoptysis and anemia.

A decoction of chicory seeds has an antipyretic, diaphoretic and even analgesic effect. Chicory flowers in the form of an infusion have a calming effect in case of increased excitability and reduce pain in the heart area. Fresh chicory juice was used to treat malaria and anemia. Chicory herb in the form of a decoction is added to baths to treat eczema and diathesis, as well as to treat joints. The same chicory herb is used as a poultice to treat abscesses, and in the form of ash in combination with sour cream is used for various kinds skin lesions, including psoriasis and eczema.

In general, chicory is familiar traditional healers since ancient times. There is evidence that in many scientific works of ancient healing scientists there is a mention of chicory.

Chicory is an excellent substitute for coffee and, unlike the latter, it is much healthier. Using chicory instead of coffee helps cleanse the body, remove accumulated waste and toxins, radioactive substances, improve digestion and even speed up metabolism.

Chicory has a positive effect on gastric motility and the digestive process in general. Thus, common chicory helps improve the functioning of the stomach when digesting difficult-to-digest food.
The removal of toxins is due to the fact that chicory has a beneficial effect on the liver, enhancing its functions.

Medicinal recipes

Chicory has incredible beneficial properties, so with daily consumption of chicory, the condition of the skin and general condition of a person improves.
The most in a simple way The use of chicory is to make a decoction.

• Root decoction: Thoroughly chop one tablespoon of chicory roots, pour half a liter of boiling water and boil for about half an hour. After cooling, the resulting decoction should be filtered and taken before meals, a tablespoon three times a day. This decoction helps improve appetite and the digestive process in general, and is also an excellent choleretic and diuretic.
• An infusion of chicory roots is used to treat the gastrointestinal tract, inflammatory processes of the bladder, and skin diseases. Infusion: pour a full tablespoon of crushed root with half a liter of boiling water and leave in a closed container for several hours. After the infusion is filtered, the remains of the steamed root are squeezed out and consumed half a glass half an hour before meals three times a day. The infusion is also recommended for the treatment of cholelithiasis or an enlarged spleen.
• Chicory juice also has a lot of beneficial properties, as it treats anemia and skin diseases (acne, diathesis, eczema, pustular skin diseases), and also serves as a sedative. Chicory juice: to prepare the juice, only young shoots at the budding stage are used, which are thoroughly washed, scalded with boiling water and passed through a meat grinder. The resulting pulp is squeezed out through a rag or several layers of gauze and boiled for a couple of minutes. Afterwards, add honey to the boiled juice and take one teaspoon up to four times a day.
• Lotions made from chicory roots help cure diathesis, including in children over two years of age. Lotion: prepare a mixture of roots and aerial parts of chicory, taken in equal parts. Boil four tablespoons of the resulting mixture in a glass of water for thirty minutes. Afterwards, as usual, cool and squeeze. Take baths or douches at night. The treatment period is at least three days.
• To improve or even restore vision, use a mixture of chicory, parsley, carrot and celery juices. A glass of this juice mixture per day with constant use for several days (or weeks if serious problems with vision), gives excellent results with various defects vision.

To treat anemia, use the following recipe:
Add a teaspoon of chicory juice to half a glass of milk. This mixture must be taken at least three times a day for a month and a half. Afterwards take a week break and repeat the course.

For arrhythmia, you can try this method:
Grind the chicory root thoroughly and take one teaspoon, add half a liter of water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, close the container with a lid and leave to steep for a couple of hours. Then strain and add honey. Take half a glass three times a day before meals.

For gastritis:
Chop the chicory flowers and stems thoroughly and take a couple of tablespoons. Pour the indicated amount of the mixture into a liter of boiling water and boil for a quarter of an hour. Cool, strain and drink half a glass three times a day.

For the prevention of laryngitis, bronchitis and treatment of lung diseases:
Grind the chicory root in advance and add motherwort herb in a 1:1 ratio. Pour a mixture of motherwort and chicory in the amount of three tablespoons (tablespoons) into two glasses of hot water and leave to infuse for fifteen minutes. Drink as regular tea throughout the day.

Contraindications

Chicory roots have no particular side effects and are not toxic.
Long-term use of chicory preparations can cause increased secretion of gastric juice, as well as diuresis. The use of herbal preparations, including chicory, should not be used when treating children under two years of age. Individual intolerance may be present.

In the article we talk about chicory, discuss its beneficial properties 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 tap root and laticifers in all organs.

Photo and description of the chicory plant: Appearance of chicory The stem of chicory is erect, twig-like, green or bluish-green. 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-shaped, blue, white or pink, with a corolla 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 areas 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, and 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 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 typical for 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. You can collect and cook its leaves 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

Soluble chicory is 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 over low heat 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 the functioning of the cardiovascular system, lowers blood sugar levels, calms the central nervous system, 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 lower blood pressure and maintain its normal levels, you can drink chicory brewed according to the 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 when used correctly, it 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 by 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 in large quantities the drink increases blood pressure, causes heart rhythm disturbances, provokes headaches, nausea, heartburn, increased production of hydrochloric acid 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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