Common chicory herb. Chicory beneficial properties and contraindications use of chicory drink benefits and harms

Perennial plant of the Asteraceae or Asteraceae family.

The culture can be found in many countries with a 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. Flowers blue, less common Pink colour, 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 important product for diabetics, and contains from 60 to 70% insulin.

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

Caffeine is prohibited for people with high blood pressure, for diabetes and stomach disorders, for 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 thanks to great content fiber.

Proven to be effective in the treatment of gastritis, stomach ulcers and 12 duodenum, liver, gallbladder, with dysbacteriosis.

Normalizes heart function and heart rate, slowing it down, promotes vasodilation and removes cholesterol.

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

Included in dietary products and complexes for weight loss.
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 that we will discuss further.

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 it should be remembered that any technique medicinal herb, including chicory, should be taken in limited quantities, after consulting with your 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 of removing 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 cholagogue: 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.

A large number of ascorbic acid, may 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 a 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 the real one is useful instant chicory, which contains a large number 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, unique only to chicory.

Most of us only know about chicory that it can be used instead of coffee or added to dishes to enhance the taste and aroma. And here are the doctors Ancient Egypt, Avicenna and Ibn Sina used decoctions and tinctures of this herb for the bites of poisonous snakes, scorpions, and also for the treatment of heart diseases, gastrointestinal tract and musculoskeletal system. Nowadays, chicory is grown as a cultivated plant as a seasoning, and is also used in dietary nutrition and added to various medications.

Chicory - composition and beneficial properties

Chicory – perennial family Asteraceae, it is widespread, modest blue flowers can be found on roadsides, in vacant lots, meadows, vegetable gardens and even in city parks throughout Russia, Europe and the USA. Wild chicory is considered weed grass, although it is happily grown in pastures and gardens - it is an excellent honey plant and is very loved by pets. IN THE USA, Western Europe In Indonesia, India and Russia, chicory is grown to be added to food and to make a healthy drink. Chicory root is used for medicinal purposes and cooking; it grows up to 1.5 m, dried and crushed. Less commonly, the leaves or seeds of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. Composition of chicory root Chicory root contains many useful substances and components such as:

inulin – chicory root contains up to 60% inulin in the dry residue, and only people who are very far from medicine and the problems of weight loss have not heard about its beneficial properties today. The discovery of this polysaccharide at the end of the 20th century was a real “breakthrough” in treatment diabetes mellitus and dietetics. Today, doctors classify this compound as a prebiotic, a substance that stimulates the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the lower intestines. Once in the human body, inulin improves carbohydrate and fat metabolism, activates the process of glucose absorption, thereby reducing its amount in the blood and reducing the process of fatty tissue deposition. Regularly taken inulin reduces the content of “bad” cholesterol in the blood, improves the digestibility of enzymes and promotes the overall health of the body;
intibin - this glycoside is used in the preparation of many medicines. It helps reduce blood pressure by improving vascular tone and expanding their lumen;
bitterness - these substances stimulate secretion and excretion gastric juice and bile;
organic acids - these substances are necessary for the human body to maintain acid-base balance, normalize all types of metabolism, as well as to protect tissues and cells from the effects of free radicals.
tannins - these compounds have antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, have an anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effect and prevent the development of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi;
B vitamins – a lack of vitamins of this group has an extremely negative effect on the state of the human central nervous system. Hypovitaminosis can lead to constant irritability, increased excitability, headaches and so on;
iron, potassium and other microelements - they are necessary for normalizing metabolism and stable operation internal organs and systems.

The use of chicory in traditional medicine

Chicory root is not only a raw material for a tonic drink and a weight loss composition, it has many beneficial properties that allow it to be used to treat various diseases of internal organs. Chicory root decoction and tincture have the following properties:

anti-inflammatory and antiseptic - chicory preparations destroy pathogenic bacteria, fungi and viruses, they are used to treat skin diseases such as eczema, seborrhea, allergic rashes, dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and other similar diseases. Chicory is no less useful in the treatment of purulent wounds and burns;
choleretic - chicory enhances the formation and secretion of bile; in past centuries it was used to treat diseases of the digestive system, especially inflammation of the liver and hypoacid gastritis or stomach ulcers;
diaphoretic and diuretic - these properties of chicory make it an excellent antipyretic and decongestant;
hypoglycemic - chicory has become widely popular due to its sugar-substituting properties; it is used in dietetics and in the treatment of diabetes, as well as for weight loss and in clinical nutrition;
restorative and sedative - unlike regular coffee, a drink made from chicory strengthens the body; when consumed regularly, blood sugar levels are reduced, blood vessels are strengthened, cholesterol levels in the blood are reduced and the nervous system is strengthened.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that chicory is recommended for regular use, there are, however, certain limitations in its use. So, due to the high content of vitamin C and other biologically active substances, chicory should be used with caution by people suffering from different types allergies. Before use, they need to conduct an allergy test and make sure that the drink or medicine will not harm their body.

Excessive consumption of chicory, especially in large quantities, can lead to an excess of vitamins in the body and cause overstimulation of the nervous system. You should not use chicory if you have vascular diseases, as varicose veins veins and hemorrhoids are contraindications to taking chicory preparations. You should be especially careful when taking chicory if you are sick. respiratory tract, especially with bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis or chronic cough– chicory has a stimulating effect on cough receptors and intensifies coughing attacks or provokes their onset.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding are not a contraindication to the use of chicory; moreover, gynecologists recommend it, if necessary, to replace coffee or other caffeine-containing drinks in the diet. Pediatricians advise not to give chicory drink or treat children until they reach the age of 5-7 years, but strict contraindications there is no indication for its use in pediatrics. Naturally, it cannot be included in the diet of a child under 3 years of age.

Chicory - recipes

Chicory drink– invigorating, tasty and healthy drink from the root of the plant is quite capable of replacing coffee - it, like coffee, activates the nervous system, improves mood and stimulates the functioning of internal organs, but, unlike drinks containing caffeine, does not have harmful effects on the heart and blood vessels. This drink improves blood circulation, normalizes blood pressure, and is recommended for headaches, increased irritability, heart disease and a decrease in the body's defenses.
Today you can buy chicory in specialized health food stores or pharmacies. You can be offered it in 3 types - instant chicory, fried and liquid. Each of them has its own characteristics of preparation and use. Thus, fried or ground chicory is considered the healthiest and most delicious; to prepare it, the root of the plant is lightly fried and ground. With this processing, the maximum preservation is possible. beneficial features, taste and aroma of the plant. Soluble chicory is obtained by special processing of the root, it is dried and ground. Liquid chicory - obtained by extraction - extracting beneficial substances from the root by evaporation.

To prepare a drink from chicory, pour 1 tsp or 1 tbsp of the raw material into 1 tbsp. hot water or milk and let the solution brew. There are no exact brewing proportions here, just as when brewing regular tea; everyone determines the required proportions, choosing a drink that is more saturated or weak taste. Drink chicory at any time of the day; it is equally useful in the morning, lunch and evening; however, it is not recommended to drink more than 2-3 cups a day. You can add milk, sugar or honey to chicory.
Chicory infusion– it is used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, especially the liver, for headaches and as a dietary drink. It has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, stimulates the formation of bile and has a calming effect on the nervous system. This infusion is prepared from 1 tbsp of finely ground chicory roots and 0.5 liters of hot water. The plant material is poured with water, left to infuse for several hours, then filtered and taken 1/2 tbsp 3-4 times a day before meals, for a long time.
Alcohol tincture of chicory– it is used to treat skin diseases, purulent wounds and taken orally with increased blood pressure and heart diseases. An infusion is prepared from 30 grams of crushed chicory root, which is poured with 200 ml of 40% alcohol, left in a dark and warm place for 2 weeks and then filtered. This tincture is effective in the treatment of large wounds, eczema, dermatitis, seborrhea and other diseases - the affected areas are wiped with a cotton swab or applications are made from a cloth moistened with alcohol. You need to repeat the procedure 2 times a day until healing skin. Inside alcohol tincture take 1 tsp 1 time a day after meals, for a long time.
Chicory decoction– used for stagnation of bile in the liver and gallbladder, inflammatory diseases kidneys, to improve appetite and normalize digestion. Prepare a decoction of 1 tablespoon of crushed chicory root, which is poured with 0.5 liters of water, boiled over low heat for half an hour, and filtered after cooling. Take 1 tbsp decoction 3 times a day before meals.
Pouring and baths– for diathesis in children, skin diseases For adults, lotions, douches and baths with chicory root are prepared. To prepare a solution of 4 tbsp of crushed root and 4 tbsp of dry or fresh leaves and shoots of the plant, pour 1 tbsp of hot water, boil for 30 minutes, then cool for 10 minutes, filter and add to water for bathing or dousing - at the rate of 1 tbsp solution per 10 liters of water. Take this bath 2-3 times, then take a break for several days and repeat the procedure.
For weight loss– chicory root is used for weight loss and normalization of metabolism. The infusion is prepared from 1 tbsp of dry finely ground roots, which are poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water, allowed to brew for several hours, then filtered and taken 1/2 tbsp 3-4 times a day 30-40 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 10-14 days. Chicory is not a medicine or a “magic elixir” for weight loss; this plant can be used as a aid at various diseases or help you get rid of extra pounds by following a diet and physical activity, but not more.

Cichorium intybus L.

- perennial herbaceous plant family Asteraceae. Found almost everywhere. It grows near roads and ditches, in vacant lots, along the banks of rivers and lakes.

The raw material is the entire plant. It contains up to 49% inulin, sugar, resins, and glycosides. Chicory is widely used in folk medicine various countries. The plant stimulates appetite, enhances digestion, regulates metabolism in case of skin diseases, increases the secretion of urine and bile, stops diarrhea, has a calming effect on the nervous system, enhances the activity of the heart, and slows down the heart rate.

little blue flower,
The stem is like a rod,
I'll throw the root in for frying -
I let the coffee pot brew.

I think no best substitute coffee than chicory, especially for hypertensive patients.

Aster family (Asteraceae) - ASTERACEAE

Description. A perennial herbaceous plant 30–100 cm high. The root is tap root, poorly branched, up to 1.5 m long. The stem is straight, rough, ribbed, with protruding branches. The basal leaves are pinnately cut, collected in a rosette, the stem leaves are alternate, sessile, lanceolate. The baskets sit singly at the ends of the branches, as well as two or three in the axils of the leaves. All flowers in the basket are ligulate. The receptacle is flat, with bristly films in the middle. The corolla is blue. The fruit is a light brown or brown achene. It blooms from the end of June to September - during haying time, baskets of blue flowers attract bees with their nectar..

Geographical distribution . The middle zone and south of the European part of Russia, the Caucasus, Central Asia.

Organs used: roots and inflorescences.

Chemical composition. The roots, leaves and seeds of chicory contain inulin (C 6 H 10 O 5)n, the content of which in the roots of wild plants reaches 49%, and in cultivated plants - up to 61%. In addition, the roots contain the glycoside “intibin” (0.032-0.099%) - a colorless gelatinous mass with a pronounced bitter taste, characteristic of chicory root. The glucoside chicorin C 15 H 16 O 9 was found in flowers, which, upon hydrolysis, breaks down into esculetin (chicorigenin) and glucose; in the milky juice there are bitter substances: lactucin C 15 H 16 O 5; lactucopicrin C 23 H 22 O 7, which is a monoester of paraoxyphenylacetic acid and lactucin; taraxasterol C 30 H 50 O.

Pharmacological properties and application. Chicory is popular mainly in folk medicine. Its roots are used as a bitter substance that increases appetite and improves digestion. The experiment established sedative effect chicory on the central nervous system and increased heart activity, increasing the amplitude of contractions and slowing down the rhythm. In addition, it was found that it has antimicrobial and astringent properties.

It is prescribed when hyperacid gastritis, enterocolitis, chronic constipation, and also as a diuretic for kidney diseases, Bladder, gout, infusion externally - for furunculosis, eczema, purulent wounds in the form of washes and lotions.

In Bulgarian folk medicine chicory roots are recommended in the form of a decoction for diseases of the kidneys, liver, jaundice, stomach ulcers, sore throat, inflammation of the respiratory system, etc. (D. Jordanov et al., 1976).

The roots contain vitamins A, C, B2, PP, manganese, iron, potassium, sodium, phosphorus. The inulin and fructose of the roots caramelize when roasted, which gives the characteristic color and aroma to the drink.

To obtain tender and tasty greens, salad varieties are specially grown, which, due to their mild hypoglycemic effect, are used in dietary nutrition for diabetes.

According to experimental data, infusion of chicory inflorescences has calming effect on the central nervous system, tones the heart. Avicenna widely used chicory to treat colitis, gastritis, and enteritis. Since a decoction of the root (1 teaspoon per glass, boil for 5 minutes) has a choleretic and diuretic effect, it is recommended for cirrhosis, hepatitis, cholelithiasis, nephritis, cystitis. A decoction of roots and herbs is widely used internally for hysteria, hypochondria, externally for skin diseases: eczema, acne, furunculosis, purulent wounds, diathesis, inflammation of the lymph glands. It is also recommended for general loss of strength, increased sweating, diseases of the spleen, hemorrhoids and as a means of normalizing blood composition.

Chicory has a mild laxative, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect, and a decoction of achenes has antipyretic, diaphoretic and analgesic properties.

Decoction of roots and water infusion herbs are used as a remedy to improve general exchange substances for jaundice, liver disease, diarrhea, constipation, catarrh of the stomach and intestines, urinary incontinence, cholelithiasis, liver and kidney disease, spleen, hemorrhoids and various skin diseases - rashes, acne, ulcers, boils.

In Central Asia to protect against sunstroke bathe children in a decoction of herbs.

The ash of chicory herb mixed with sour cream is used for rubbing in eczema. Herbal baths are used for scrofula. A decoction of the roots is used as a warm rinse for toothache.

To prepare a decoction of the roots, take a teaspoon of the raw material in 2 cups of water, boil, leave for 2 hours, filter, add sugar. Take 1/2 glass before meals 3 times a day.

To prepare an infusion of herbs, a teaspoon of the raw material is infused in a glass of boiling water, sugar is added and 1/2 cup is taken 3 times a day before meals (Makhlayuk, 1992).

Chicory preparations reduce sweating, they are used for kidney stone disease, they reduce blood sugar (in urine) and are used for edema of cardiac origin.

For anemia it is prescribed Fresh Juice plants. To prepare it, young chicory shoots are collected during the budding period, washed, scalded with boiling water, passed through a meat grinder, and squeezed. Take a teaspoon of juice per 1/2 glass of milk 4 times a day. The course of treatment is 1.5 months (Pastushenkov, 1990).

It has been experimentally established that an alcohol extract (1:1) gives positive effect with diabetes mellitus.

The herb is used for liver cirrhosis and spasmophilia (Surina, 1974).

In Ukraine chicory is used for enlarged liver, dropsy, general weakness, hemoptysis, enlarged spleen, hypochondria, aches, diabetes, prolapse of the stomach, fainting, cystitis, bites of rabid animals (Popov, 1973).

Chicory improves blood composition; it is used for smallpox, tumors, old wounds, and eye inflammation (Kovaleva, 1971).

A decoction of flowers has a positive effect on neurasthenia and hysteria (Ges, 1976).

Chicory is used for pulmonary tuberculosis and allergies (Sviridonov, 1992). Plant ash - in the treatment of leishmaniasis (Yudina, 1988).

Methods of preparation and use

1. Two teaspoons of crushed chicory raw material are poured into 2 cups of boiling water, boiled for 10 minutes, and filtered after cooling. Prescribe half a glass orally 3 times a day.

2. One teaspoon of chicory herb is poured into a glass of boiling water, left until cool and filtered. The resulting infusion is administered orally, half a glass 30 minutes before meals, 3 times a day.

3. A decoction or infusion is also used topically on boils and infected wounds in the form of lotions, washing.

Chicory roots have medicinal and nutritional value. They dig them in September - October, wash them in cold water, cut and place in a low-heat oven or oven at a temperature of 80 - 90°.

Considering everything medicinal benefits of chicory, its value as a coffee substitute is certainly great. It not only replaces coffee, but significantly complements it therapeutic effect, gives a person vigor in the morning, relieves insomnia, improves metabolism. Therefore, chicory is cultivated in Ukraine, in the Yaroslavl and Ivanovo regions.

Use only young chicory leaves To do this, immediately after the snow melts, they are covered with straw or paper. Deprived of light, they become white, tender, and fragile. Or they take them as soon as they grow. Salads are prepared from them by adding green onions, parsley, dill, green pea, cabbage, seasoned with sour cream, mayonnaise or sauce. Leaves and young shoots are stewed with potatoes, cabbage, and carrots.

At the time of flowering, the leaves and stems are very rough; during this period they can only be collected for medicinal purposes.

In almost every supermarket you can find chicory on the shelves next to coffee and teas. It is sold in powder or syrup, in pure form or with all sorts of valuable additives, such as ginseng, sea buckthorn, rose hip , blueberries and others.

Do you know what the chicory plant is, from which this drink, useful for adults and even small children, is made? In this article we will tell you what chicory looks like, where it grows, what it is useful for, how it is used in cooking and in folk medicine.

General information

Some people consider the chicory plant to be a weed and do not pay attention to it. The humble blue flower likes to grow along roadsides (photo below), which is why in some regions it is called plantain or roadside plant.

It is also called Peter’s Batog, because, according to mythology, the Apostle Peter once used twigs to drive insects off wheat ears, and when he finished, he threw these twigs onto the road. From them chicory grew, which since ancient times has mainly lived near roads.

You can meet him in meadows, forest clearings, and wastelands - wherever it is sunny and dry, because he always avoids swampy shady places. The habitat of chicory is very wide. It grows on almost every continent except Antarctica. In Russia, it is distributed in the temperate climate zone, the Caucasus, and Siberia.

Taxonomy

Chicory is a member of the Asteraceae family. It has only 10 species. Of these, 2 are cultivated, grown for green mass used for making salads, and 8 are wild.

Of the cultivated chicories, the most wide application I found our chicory - common chicory (Cichorium intybus) - a plant with an unremarkable appearance and a very large set of useful properties. It is usually called by the general name of the genus – chicory, without specifying the species “ordinary”. We will also adhere to this rule.

Photo: common root chicory, cultivated varieties (Cichorium intybus var. Sativum)

Chemical composition of plant parts

The unique beneficial properties of chicory, thanks to which it is used not only by traditional healers, but also by official medicine, are based on its chemical composition.

Needed for human body substances are found in almost all parts of the plant, but most of them are found in the root. It contains the polysaccharide inulin, as much as 11%, and during the peak season the percentage rises to 75%. Pharmacists use it as a prebiotic - a substance that has a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora.

In addition, the chicory plant contains in its roots and leaves:
- protein substances (polypeptides, proteins);
- intibin (a very useful glycoside);
- organic acids;
- thiamine;
- carotene;
- riboflavin;
- vitamin C;
- niacin;
- pantothenic acid;
- pyridoxine;
- folic acid;
- microelements (iron, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, sodium).

Chicory flowers contain coumarin glycosides.
Young leaves contain carotene, potassium salts, and inulin.
The milky juice contains lactucopicrin and lactucin.

Photo: common chicory (Cichorium intybus)

Benefits of chicory

The properties of chicory are very diverse. It has found application as:
- anti-inflammatory;
- antibacterial;
- antipyretic;
- immunostimulating;
- choleretic;
- diuretic;
- wound healing;
- a sedative.

Unique properties of chicory traditional healers used to get rid of heartburn, to remove toxins, to increase appetite and improve bowel function, to cleanse the blood and reduce blood glucose.

What diseases can a simple blue flower help with?

Use of chicory in official medicine, one might say, modest. It is used mainly as a prebiotic and also as an appetite suppressant. Due to its high inulin content, chicory root is valuable for the industrial production of fructose.

In folk medicine, chicory is more in demand. It is used for the following ailments:
- diabetes;
- heart and kidney failure;
- gastrointestinal diseases;
- cold;
- nervous disorders;
- weakening of the body and decreased immunity after operations, many viral and infectious diseases;
- migraine;
- anemia;
- insomnia;
- skin diseases (wounds, eczema, tumors, insect bites).

Photo: chicory flowers

Blank

To save as much as possible unique properties chicory, its roots should be harvested from July (according to other sources - only in September–October and March). They need to be dug out of the ground, washed thoroughly, divided into small fragments and dried in a special oven (you can try in a regular oven) or in the open air in a place where sunlight does not fall. To prepare the drink, the roots are roasted and ground into powder. Roasting removes the bitterness from the roots and achieves a coffee-colored drink, as well as a pleasant aroma. To use as a medicine, dry roots do not need to be fried.

In addition, flowers and green mass of chicory are harvested. These raw materials are used only for medicinal purposes; they are not suitable for drinking. They do the harvesting all summer long. The cut parts of the plant are dried general rules(in the shade in a place that is well ventilated and out of direct sunlight). Easily breaking stems will indicate that the drying process is complete. After this, the raw materials must be stored in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Dried chicory roots are stored in a cool, ventilated place. If they are processed into powder, it is important to remember that chicory root powder is very hygroscopic, so it cannot be stored in open containers or in containers made of paper or fabric.

Growing chicory

You can grow a useful plant in your garden by giving it a bright place. Now on the seed market for gardeners there are common root chicory “Coffee”, “Witch Doctor”, and a leafy variety “Arrows of Cupid” with red veins on green leaves - the latter is grown as an annual. A number of varieties of chicory root are included in the State Register of Breeding Achievements of Plant Varieties and are recommended for all crop cultivation zones, including for mechanized harvesting. These are root chicory "Alexandrite", "Rostovsky", "Gogolevsky", "Chryzolit", "RTs 4", "Nikolsky", "Petrovsky", "Fluor". Chicory varieties compare favorably with wild plant, since they have a double set of chromosomes responsible for the beneficial properties of chicory. Such plants have larger roots, higher yield and content of dry matter and inulin, and leafy varieties have a good rosette of leaves with a reduced bitterness content. The highest yields are demonstrated by the varieties "Alexandrite" (550-600 c/ha), "Chryzolit" (450 c/ha), RC 4 (461 c/ha). High content inulin differs in "Fluor" (20.5-21.5%), "RTs 4 (24.3%), "Chrysolite" (20-21%).

Seeds should be sown in early spring, as soon as the soil allows, it should warm up to 8 degrees. They are buried no more than 2 cm and no less than 1 cm into loose soil. The groove or hole is pre-compacted a little so that the seeds do not fall deeper. Place the plants no closer than 20 cm from each other. Shoots will appear in a week or a little more, and already at the beginning of summer it will be possible to use fresh leaves chicory.

Sometimes the experience of foreign gardeners is used. The developed rosette of leaves is covered with a dark, breathable material, such as matting, for about three weeks. Without access to light, the bitterness leaves the leaves, after which they can be eaten raw without preliminary preparation. The root of this perennial ripens by the end of the second season, then it can be dug up for culinary or medicinal purposes, or stored for future use.

Drink consumption

The most common and simplest use for chicory is to simply make a drink out of it. To do this, you can buy it in a store, or you can make it yourself. The drink tastes a bit like coffee , but does not have an invigorating effect, since it does not contain caffeine. It can be used by children and adults, including pregnant women. Nursing mothers can take the drink only if the baby is not allergic to it, and if this drink does not impair lactation.

The process of preparing a store-bought drink is extremely simple - add one (one and a half, two) teaspoon of powder to a cup, sugar to taste, stir, pour boiling water over it. If desired, you can add milk.

If you are preparing a drink from a homemade product, it is advisable to boil it for a minute, since at home not everyone will be able to make a soluble powder from the root of the plant.

Chicory drink for children

IN last years The use of chicory as a drink in kindergartens is increasingly observed. Some doctors recommend starting to give chicory to children over one year old, others from one and a half years, and others from two years. Which advice to follow is your choice, but in any case you need to start with a small dose. To do this, place half a teaspoon of powder in a glass of boiling water. If the child liked this drink, you can continue, gradually increasing the dose to a teaspoon of chicory powder per glass. If not, you need to postpone the experiments until the baby grows up and try again.

Benefits for children

The properties of chicory are very useful for the younger generation. His positive impact is as follows:
- improves appetite;
- strengthens the immune system;
- helps absorb lactic acids;
- promotes better digestion;
- relieves constipation;
- removes toxins (cleanses all body systems);
- saves from dysbacteriosis;
- regulates metabolism.

Pediatricians confidently recommend the use of chicory for children with the following pathologies:
- Iron-deficiency anemia;
- skin diseases, including diathesis;
- disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
- nervous disorders;
- improper metabolism.

Photo: common chicory (Cichorium intybus) growing wild

The use of chicory as a medicinal plant

There are several hundred recipes for chicory. Almost every healer has his own methods of preparing potions from roadside blue flower. They recommend wild chicory. We offer only some of the most popular recipes.

Decoctions

Decoctions from roots alone or from roots and green mass help with diabetes, tuberculosis, neurasthenia, problems with the pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, gall, liver, spleen, colds and rheumatism. They are also used to prevent many diseases and strengthen the immune system.

The decoction is prepared in approximately the same way in all cases. You need to take a full tablespoon of the dried and crushed mixture, carefully pour hot water(200 ml), put the dishes on the fire and simmer for 10 minutes over low heat. Then let cool, strain thoroughly and take three times a day or as regular tea.

Important! You need to drink this medicine before meals, so that the drink before meals has time to “work” in the gastrointestinal tract, improving their functionality.

Infusions

This remedy is approximately the same as decoctions, only more concentrated due to the infusion process. The use of chicory in infusions is practiced for the same ailments as the use of decoctions.

Method of preparation: pour boiling water (200 ml) over a tablespoon of dried raw materials, heat for 10 minutes over low heat and leave to infuse, placing in a thermos or wrapped in a blanket. The resulting drug can be drunk as tea, but to do this it must be diluted with water to reduce the concentration. You can also take the infusion without diluting it, but no more than ¼ cup at a time. Number of doses: 3 or 4 times a day.

Alcohol tinctures

They are prepared according to general principle. Collect the green mass of chicory (you can add crushed roots 1:1 to it), fill the jar, fill it with alcohol and leave for 2 weeks to infuse. The resulting drug can be used as rubs and compresses for rheumatism, pain in muscles and joints. You can also lubricate wounds, acne, and boils with this product.

The use of chicory in dermatology and cosmetology

For treatment skin ailments prepare a thicker chicory decoction. To do this, take 2-3 heaped spoons of dry raw materials, add water and boil for 7 minutes. Allow to cool. Strain. Add to water when taking baths (this promotes skin regeneration, toning, cleansing, treatment of small cracks and rashes). In order to strengthen the hair roots, the resulting decoction is diluted with water 1:1 and rubbed into the scalp. This decoction is also suitable for rinsing oral cavity, and in some countries they even add chicory to toothpastes to strengthen the gums and mucous membranes.

Chicory in cooking

Not only doctors, but also culinary specialists widely use the chicory plant (as well as its closely related dandelion ).
Leaves of wild chicory have long been consumed. For example, in Albania it successfully replaces spinach, in Greece it is an integral ingredient in one of the cuisines, in India, Italy, Turkey, and Palestine they are added to coffee. Chicory root is a generally accepted coffee substitute. In some countries, its salad variety is actively cultivated. But our ordinary chicory also comes into play. The content of bitterness in its milky juice gives the food a special piquancy. And in order to reduce it, the leaves are first doused with boiling water. After that, they are fried with onions or other products.

Here are some recipes:

Additive to side dish

In spring, young chicory leaves and small flower shoots are cut off. All this is washed, cut into pieces and stewed in oil. Salt and spices are added to taste. The resulting product can be added to boiled and sliced potatoes.

Salad

The youngest chicory leaves are cut off, washed, lettuce, onion, cucumber are added to them, and seasoned with oil. Salt to taste.

soup

The wild (ordinary) chicory plant can also be used for preparing first courses. For this you will need bacon, garlic, tomatoes, parsley, Parmesan cheese. Rinse the chicory leaves (about 1 kg of them) very well in several waters, boil in salted water and drain in a colander, but do not throw away the water, but leave it in a separate saucepan. In a frying pan olive oil fry the chopped clove of garlic and pieces of bacon, then add to this the water in which the chicory leaves were boiled and simmer until the meat is cooked. At the very end of the process, add the tomatoes cut into pieces. Next, put the mixture from the frying pan into the pan, boiled chicory, salt and pepper, add water (just a little), put on fire, add grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

There are even more dishes made from chicory salad, which also has a piquant bitterness. It is consumed raw, without heat treatment. All these dishes are extremely useful for the prevention of dozens of ailments.

Use for weight loss and I

There is no consensus on how advisable it is to use chicory to get rid of excess weight. On the one hand, this herb removes toxins and waste, and with them excess liquid, normalizes metabolic processes, which to some extent helps with weight loss. But on the other hand, it increases appetite, which is why some doctors do not recommend the use of chicory for obese people. At the same time, thanks to inulin, chicory can be useful for exhaustion and weight loss.

Contraindications

No matter how beneficial the properties of chicory may be, not everyone can use it. Oxalates are found in its parts, so doctors do not advise consuming chicory for those who suffer from hypotension, anemia, stomach ulcers, and kidney diseases. There is an opinion that it should be used very carefully by those who have hemorrhoids, varicose veins, bronchial asthma, gout and kidney stones.

My meadow Russia,

There is no more beautiful land!

Flowers with blue eyes

They look to your heavens.

The sky is reflected in the dew,

And it seems that they have merged,

Like in a fairy tale: both reality and fiction,

Earth and heavenly heights...

My early childhood passed in a wonderful land of endless fields and mighty forests. My grandfather worked as a forester and knew many different natural signs. I remember we went to check the plantings of young pine trees. Grandfather drew my attention to chicory and told me that this plant is a real natural hydrometeorological center: when it rained, the beautiful pale blue flowers of chicory became darker and closed, and when the sun and clear sunny weather appeared, they opened and again acquired a sky-blue appearance.

Before flowering, common chicory is an unremarkable perennial herbaceous plant with a simple or branched tall stem, which (like the leaves) is covered with hard fibers. The basal leaves form a beautiful rosette, and the upper leaves “hug” the stem.

The heavenly blue inflorescences-baskets consist of delicate reed flowers. The fruit of chicory is an achene with an ovoid tuft with a membranous crown.

Flowering in warm summers begins at the end of June.

Common chicory grows along roads, in meadows, in rocky places and along river banks, in front gardens and vegetable gardens as a weed. There are always a lot of bees around him, as he is an excellent honey plant. Certain varieties of chicory are cultivated. Their roots are used to make a drink - a coffee substitute. For this, chicory is highly valued by diabetics.

Chemical composition of chicory

Contains chicory roots up to 60% inulin. What it is? Inulin is a polysaccharide that accumulates in plants from the Asteraceae family, such as dandelion, burdock, Jerusalem artichoke, and of course chicory. Inulin, when taken orally by humans, is capable of participating in the same metabolic metabolic processes, the same as glucose. This is important, since inulin replaces glucose in situations where it is not absorbed by cells in type 2 diabetes.

Inulin from a cup of chicory coffee is hydrolyzed in the acidic environment of the stomach under the action of the enzyme inulase to form fructose.

And fructose is absorbed by our body without insulin, being a nutrient for our cells. Thus, energy starvation and complications of type 2 diabetes do not occur.

But chicory is rich in more than just this – it also contains choline. Many people have heard about choline. So, pharmaceutical drugs gliatilin, cerepro, noocholine are derivatives of choline. The effect of choline is nootropic, regulating metabolism in the brain, improving cerebral (brain) blood flow. Although our chicory drink does not contain much choline, it is still present.

Contains chicory vitamins, bitters.

Uses of chicory

How widely used chicory root has become over the years!

Chicory root:

improves digestion, metabolism,
calms the central nervous system,
slows down the heart rate,
restores heart function,
acts as a mild laxative and diuretic.

Applicable in complex treatment diabetes mellitus type 2, with liver diseases, with stones in the gall bladder and kidneys, with an enlarged spleen. For hypertension, chicory can replace coffee, but without increasing blood pressure.

In folk medicine, it is recommended in the form of an oral infusion as a diaphoretic, diuretic, choleretic, analgesic for dyspepsia, especially for stomach pain, and is also recommended for diseases of the kidneys, spleen, liver, exhaustion, hysteria, type 2 diabetes, and anemia.

Externally, in the form of rubdowns and washes, chicory decoction and tincture are recommended by traditional medicine for the treatment of eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, old slow-healing wounds, and skin diseases: rashes, boils.

In folk medicine in Bulgaria, chicory is used to treat stomach ulcers, as well as to treat the throat (for example, sore throat), respiratory organs, and impaired urination.

During times Soviet Union in Azerbaijani medical institute Clinical trials of liquid alcoholic 50% chicory extract in 70% alcohol were conducted for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Soviet scientists proved that in the first initial stages Type 2 diabetes can be treated with chicory. In more advanced stages of diabetes, there is an improvement in the patient's well-being and a partial decrease in sugar in the urine.

For medicinal purposes in folk medicine, the entire plant is used: both the grass and the roots. The grass is collected during active flowering, and the roots are collected in September-October.

Traditional medicine recipes from chicory

For biliary dyskinesias ways chicory herb with flowers is used. For cooking, it is better to take a thermos. Dry chicory herb is crushed. Place one heaped teaspoon of chopped chicory herb in a thermos, pour a glass of boiling water, let it brew for 40-60 minutes. Take half a glass 30 minutes before meals in the morning and evening. Gallbladder will work more actively: digestion will improve, there will be no reflux of bile into the stomach, there will be no fermentation and rotting in small intestine, will not be bothered by constipation.

At cholelithiasis And urolithiasis It is better to use both chopped chicory herb and chopped chicory root together. Place 1 tablespoon of roots and herbs in a thermos and pour 2 cups of boiling water, let it brew for 4 hours. Take half a glass 20 minutes before meals in the morning, at lunch, and in the evening. Course 21 days.

For urinary incontinence at mature women crushed chicory root is used. Place 1 tablespoon of chopped chicory root in an enamel saucepan and pour 1 cup of boiling water. Boil in a water bath for 10 minutes, let it brew for 1 hour. Cool and bring to 1 cup volume boiled water. Drink 1/4 glass during the day 20 minutes before meals. Course 21 days.

The same decoction is used for neurasthenia and menopause pathological, removes inflammation in the spleen.

For colds, fever, rheumatism: Place 1 tablespoon of chopped chicory root and 1 teaspoon of meadowsweet herb (meadowsweet) in a thermos. Pour 1 cup of boiling water. Let it brew for 1 hour. Take 1/2 cup several times a day.

In complex treatment tuberculosis Both the root and the flowering herb of common chicory are used. To do this, pour 2 tablespoons of chicory roots, 1 tablespoon of flowering herb (dry), 1 teaspoon of meadowsweet herb, 1 teaspoon of motherwort herb into a thermos with 2 cups of boiling water. Let it brew for 1 hour. Take 1/2 cup with mummy tablets 0.2 x 3 times a day. Course 3 months.

For fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis : Place 2 tablespoons of chopped chicory roots in an enamel pan, add 1 tablespoon of chopped chicory herb, pour 3 cups of boiling water. Cook in a water bath for 15 minutes from the moment of boiling. Let it brew for 25 minutes. Strain. Take 1/2 cup hot with honey x 3 times a day. Course 3 months.

The same recipe is used externally (without honey) for eczema, dermatitis, furunculosis, abscesses, trophic ulcers, burns in the form of applications.

There is information about the treatment of sinusitis, but the effectiveness has not been proven.

For hair loss Apply this decoction internally and rinse your hair with it after washing.

They are so interesting - blue flowers of common chicory on a green meadow. As a diabetic, I myself regularly take a chicory drink and am pleased with the effects of this plant, so I am happy to always tell pharmacy visitors about it, and today, our readers.

Good health to everyone!

Pharmacist-herbalist Vera Vladimirovna Sorokina