Chicory benefits and contraindications Chicory, scientifically known as Chichorium intybus, has benefits and contraindications that should be known. Here we detail it:
This plant grows 1 to 4 feet (30 – 130 cm) tall and has distinctive blue-purple flowers, although in rare cases these may appear white or pink. The flowers are uniquely arranged along its stiff, dark green stem.
Chicory has two different types of leaves: large dandelion-shaped leaves near the base of the stem, and small lanceolate to oblong shaped leaves along the stem.
Classification Chicory (Cichorium intybus) shares the star shape of its flowers with more than 23,000 species that also belong to the Asteraceae family, such as the chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and milk thistle (Silybum marianum).
First cultivated as an herbal medicine in ancient Egypt, the chicory it was a digestive aid in classical civilizations for thousands of years, and later found application in Greece and Rome as a food, usually in salads. The herb remained in favor until medieval times, popularly grown in monasteries.
In the 1600s, the Dutch discovered chicory’s ability to be made into a powder similar to coffee, and this cheaper alternative was used to supplement shortages and blockades during wartime, especially in Prussian conflicts and during the Civil War. US.
Economic data All parts of the chicory plant are used for human benefit, and this versatility has led to its becoming an important crop, particularly in the large-scale European agricultural industry. Belgium and the Netherlands combined to produce 77% of the world’s supply in 2011 with a yield of over 67,000 tons. France and Poland also have thriving markets, selling both leaves and roots for food and fodder, as well as medicinal herbs.
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Other uses of chicory
cattle feeding. Chicory can be used in livestock fodder as a substitute for oats. Much of the plant’s production for this purpose takes place in New Zealand.
Gardening. It is also a popular ornamental plant in gardens that provide a temperate environment, widely considered to be aesthetically pleasing because of the color of its flowers. Next, let’s see chicory benefits and contraindications.
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benefits of chicory to health
Chicory is not only a beautiful and nutritionally dense herb, but it can also be used for many medicinal purposes, including the following:
Prevents liver damage Its antioxidant properties work to prevent liver damage within the system.
Improvement of digestive function. Chicory can stimulate bile production, which affects the digestive system in general.
In addition, chicory can help combat other conditions, such as:
prevents parasites. Chicory’s anthelmintic properties can inhibit the reproduction and growth of certain parasites, such as intestinal worms.
Prevents bacterial infections. Due to its antibacterial properties, chicory can prevent sinus infections as well as other bacterial infections.
Prevents fungal growth. Chicory can prevent fungal growth on the skin or inside the body.
Has an anti-inflammatory health benefit In a study published in “Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 2005”, entitled “Inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 expression and activity by chicory extract”, chicory was reported to contain fructans with reported prebiotic-bifidogenic properties, as well as anti-inflammatory effects
Chicory has been found to inhibit prostaglandin E(2) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). Taken together, the data presented strongly supports chicory root as a promising source of functional food ingredient, combining prebiotic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cancer Health Benefits In a research published in “Carcinogenesis, 1997” titled “Effect of dietary oligofructose and inulin on the inhibition of colon preneoplastic aberrant crypt foci” has shown that oligofructose and inulin derived from chicory, fermentable chicory fructose of natural origin, have been shown to stimulate the growth of bifidobacteria which are considered beneficial strains in the colon and to inhibit colon carcinogenesis in laboratory animal models
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chicory medicinal uses
Chicory is a source of healthy nutrients, especially loved by dieters for its low calorie content. Lactucin and lactuprikrin are the two compounds responsible for most of its medicinal uses.
Chicory has numerous antioxidant properties, including flavonoids, which can inhibit many harmful actions against the body. Chicory and natural callus root extracts have shown significant hepatoprotective effects, increasing bile production, thus preventing liver damage and bacterial growth in the digestive system.
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The medicinal properties of chicory have been evident since ancient times, despite the lack of widespread use of the plant in that regard today. All parts of the plant contain volatile oils that act as a digestive tonic, primarily as a laxative, and to inhibit the reproduction of intestinal worms. German folk medicine has also applied the flower to treat sinus infections.
Boldo and dandelion also have hepatoprotective properties, while cardamom and oregano aid digestion.
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Contraindications of chicory
Chicory contraindications Chicory is safe for most people when taken medicinally or consumed. It is also likely to be safe when applied topically. However, it can cause mild skin irritation in some people. Chicory can cause allergic reactions.
Those who are allergic to ragweed or related plants may have an allergic reaction to chicory, so it is recommended to limit the use of chicory for allergy sufferers.
Pregnancy and lactation: Taking chicory by mouth in large amounts is not safe during pregnancy. Chicory can start menstruation and can cause miscarriage or abortion.
Taking large amounts of chicory for nursing mothers is also daunting as there are not enough scientific studies to establish its safe use.
Gallstone condition. Chicory can promote the secretion of bile from the gallbladder. Use chicory with caution and only under medical supervision when the patient is with gallstones.
As with any other herbal medicine, moderation of use is recommended.
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