In the article we talk about chicory, discuss its beneficial properties and use in folk medicine... You will learn how to use chicory from pressure to normalize the digestive tract and to reduce weight.
Chicory (lat.Cichorium) is a genus of biennial or perennial plants of the Astrov 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.
Common chicory has other names among the people - roadside grass, blue flower, Petrov Batogi, Shcherbak.
What does it look like
Chicory - perennial, a widespread weed. It has a long taproot and lactifers in all organs.
Photo and description of the chicory plant: Appearance of chicory The stalk of chicory is erect, twig-like, green or bluish-green in color. Branched, rough to the touch. It reaches a height of 15 to 150 cm. The branches of the plant deviate strongly from the stem and thicken towards the top. They can be naked or nearly naked, bristly or curly haired.
Basal leaves of chicory can be from ply-pinnate to whole. On the edge, the leaves are serrated, at the base they taper into a petiole. Stem leaves are rare and small, lanceolate-ovate and lanceolate.
Numerous single baskets are formed on the top of the lateral branches and in the axils of the upper and middle leaves. Chicory flowers are ligulate, blue, white or Pink colour, have a rim 15-25 mm long. The baskets are opened only in the morning hours or in cloudy weather.
The chicory fruit is a three-pentahedral achene, light brown, oblong, 2-3 mm long.
Where grows
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, New Zealand.
Chicory grows in meadows, forest glades, grassy slopes, wastelands, near roads and near settlements.
Chicory root and leaves
For medicinal purposes, the roots and leaves of the plant are used.... Although chicory flowers and stems also have beneficial properties, the content of biologically active substances in them is much lower.
Chemical composition
Chicory composition:
- the polysaccharide inulin;
- protein substances;
- glycoside intibin;
- tannins;
- organic acids;
- coumarin glycosides;
- thiamine;
- riboflavin;
- carotene;
- ascorbic acid;
- potassium;
- calcium;
- phosphorus;
- magnesium;
- sodium.
A popular question asked by users is whether there is caffeine in chicory? There is no caffeine in chicory, this is one of the benefits of the plant and drinks based on it.
More about useful properties and contraindications of fresh and instant chicory, we will talk further.
Healing properties
Use the roots and leaves of chicory Benefits of chicory:
- antibacterial;
- antioxidant;
- anti-inflammatory;
- pain reliever;
- tonic;
- calming;
- anti-sclerotic;
- hypotensive;
- choleretic;
- laxative;
- decongestant;
- immunomodulatory.
Dried chicory roots are 40% composed of the polysaccharide inulin... Inulin is not digested in the stomach and acts as a prebiotic - it stimulates the growth and vital activity of the intestinal microflora. Read more about inulin in chicory here.
Thanks to inulin, chicory has a beneficial effect on blood composition and its rheological properties. Plant-based products lower 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 bile stagnation and promote the removal of small stones from the gallbladder. We talked about this in more detail in the articles: chicory from gastritis, from peptic ulcer and with a removed gallbladder.
Chicory is good for nervous system... It has a calming effect, relaxes, eliminates anxiety. Chicory is recommended to drink with stress, increased excitability, cognitive impairment - memory loss, concentration, mental performance and others. Chicory helps with headaches and migraines. And its use in the morning tones up and gives a boost of vivacity.
What else is chicory useful for? Plant-based products have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Chicory strengthens the heart, helps to normalize the rhythm. The drink is often used as a prophylactic agent to prevent arrhythmias and other disorders. You can learn about the effect of chicory on blood pressure in this article.
Due to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of chicory, it is used to treat joint diseases - arthritis, myositis, gout. It stops inflammation in the tissues of the joint and reduces pain. You can read more about chicory for gout here.
The diuretic properties of chicory helps to remove excess fluid from the body and eliminate edema.
Chicory also has an antibacterial effect on the pathogenic microflora of the oral cavity. It acts as an antiseptic and eliminates inflammation. Boosts immunity.
The listed properties are characteristic of the roots and leaves of chicory, which are harvested according to certain rules and dried, as well as for preparations based on them. But is soluble chicory good for the body?
The most common chicory powder that can be found on sale is the crushed roots, which were initially dried at a temperature of 180-200 degrees or fried in order to give the drink a coffee flavor. At this temperature most of nutrients disappears. However, if you buy organic freeze-dried chicory from a reputable manufacturer, you can rest assured that the drink will be healthy when consumed 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 the roots - in early spring or late autumn.
Chicory leaves and stems are harvested in dry weather. Lay out thin layer on cloth or paper and dried in the shade under a canopy or in the attic. The raw materials are mixed periodically so that it dries evenly. Drying can be considered complete when the stems break easily and the leaves crumble. The leaves and stems of chicory are stored in canvas bags or paper bags in a dry and dark place. Expiration date - 1 year.
The roots of chicory are dug up, cleaned of the earth and quickly washed in cold water. First laid out for initial drying. Then the roots are cut into pieces, laid out on a cloth or paper and dried in a ventilated room under a canopy. Drying is stopped when the roots break easily, and at the same time they emit a characteristic crackle. Chicory roots can also be dried in an oven with a slightly open door 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 is 3 years.
Now you know when to harvest and how to dry chicory. Next, we will talk about its use in traditional medicine.
How to apply
Instant 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 from pharmacies or stores. In addition to its benefits, chicory can be harmful, so consult your doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.
Usually chicory is drunk as tea or coffee. Below is a classic recipe for how to brew chicory.
Ingredients:
- Chicory - 1 teaspoon
- Boiling water - 1 glass.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over the chicory, put on low heat and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and leave the drink for another 5-10 minutes. Strain.
How to use: Drink like tea.
Result: Improves the cardiovascular system, lowers blood sugar, calms the central nervous system, stimulates 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 one hour after a meal. Do not pour instant chicory with boiling water, use warm water.
For weight loss (with a diet)
Chicory effectively helps in the fight against excess weight. A drink based on plant roots does not burn fats, but it stimulates the intestines, improves digestion, lowers blood glucose levels, and removes toxins from the body. You can read more about this in the article Chicory for the liver.
Ingredients:
- Chopped chicory root - 1 teaspoon.
- 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 a 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 values, you can drink chicory brewed according to classic recipe... Honey will help to enhance its effect. Chicory with honey not only helps to normalize blood pressure, but also increases immunity.
Ingredients:
- Chicory - 1 teaspoon
- Honey - 1 teaspoon.
- Boiling water - 1 glass.
How to cook: Brew chicory. If using prepared raw materials, simmer for 5-10 minutes. Instant just fill 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 this drink in the morning on an empty stomach.
Result: Chicory with honey helps to lower blood pressure, has a tonic effect and boosts immunity.
For diarrhea
Chicory improves intestinal motility, but when used correctly, it has a strengthening effect and helps with diarrhea. For the treatment of diarrhea, chicory is taken in the form of an infusion or decoction, it can be taken by adults and children. The recipes are presented below.
Ingredients:
- Boiling water - 1 glass of boiling water.
How to cook: Put chicory flowers in a thermos and pour boiling water. Insist 2 hours. Strain before drinking.
How to use: Drink the entire infusion during the day, dividing it into 5-6 equal parts. For children, give 1 teaspoon 5-6 times a day.
Result: Eliminates diarrhea, normalizes digestion.
You can also prepare a decoction of chicory for diarrhea.
Ingredients:
- Dried chicory flowers - 1 tablespoon.
- Boiling water - 1 glass.
How to cook: Pour raw materials with water and put on low heat. Cook for 5 minutes, do not simmer too much. Insist 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, the number of doses - 5-6 times a day.
Result: Normalizes stool and digestion.
With gallstone disease
Chicory roots and herb are useful for cholelithiasis. As a means with a choleretic effect, it is used together with dandelion roots, mint leaves, tripoli and agaric.
Ingredients:
- Chicory roots - 50 grams.
- Dandelion roots - 50 grams.
- Mint leaves - 50 grams.
- Tripoli leaves - 50 grams.
- Agrimony leaves - 50 grams.
- Boiling water - 500 ml.
How to cook: Mix herbs and take 2 tablespoons of raw materials. Pour boiling water over, leave for 1-2 hours. Strain before drinking.
How to use: Take the broth within 2 days, divided into equal portions.
Result: Relieves inflammation, promotes bile flow, prevents 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 pain-relieving properties. As an external remedy, it is used for joint diseases. The recipe is presented below.
Ingredients:
- Dry chicory herb - 20 grams.
- Dry roots of chicory - 20 grams.
- Boiling water - 2 glasses.
How to cook: Pour boiling water over the raw material, leave for 10 minutes.
How to use: Apply chicory infusion as a lotion and compresses for sore joints. Compresses can be secured with a bandage and left overnight.
Result: Relieves pain in joints, relieves inflammation.
Contraindications
Despite the benefits, chicory has serious contraindications and side effects... Always consult your doctor before using it for medicinal purposes.
Contraindications of chicory:
- children's age up to 3 years;
- 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 include itching and redness, respiratory failure, and pulmonary obstruction.
When chicory is consumed in large quantities, the drink increases blood pressure, causes heart rhythm disturbances, provokes headaches, nausea, heartburn, and an increase in the production of hydrochloric acid in the gastric mucosa.
Classification
Taxonomic position:
- department: Flowering;
- class: Dicotyledonous;
- order: Astro-colored;
- family: Astrov;
- genus: Chicory;
- species: Common chicory.
Varieties
The genus of chicory includes 10 species, in addition to common chicory, salad chicory or Endive is the most famous.
Other types of chicory:
- Cichorium alatum;
- Cichorium bottae Deflers;
- Cichorium callosum Pomel;
- Cichorium calvum;
- Cichorium dubium;
- Cichorium hybridum;
- Cichorium pumilum;
- Cichorium spinosum.
More on chicory:
What to remember
- Chicory is a plant, leaves, stems and roots of which are used in folk medicine and in cooking as a drink that replaces coffee.
- Chicory lowers blood sugar levels, normalizes blood pressure, the functioning of the nervous system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Take chicory for high cholesterol, diarrhea.
- Chicory-based drinks have contraindications for use, check them out. Talk to your doctor before using chicory for medicinal purposes.
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Chicory is an unusual plant for its versatility: it is a beautiful blue flower, similar to a cornflower, and a compositae perennial, the thick root of which is a source of a coffee substitute, and valuable medicinal herb from many ailments, actively used in last years as a means for losing weight. Chicory has long been used by people for various useful purposes; such famous scientists as Theophrastus, Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder mentioned it in their writings. The ancient Egyptians used the plant to treat bites poisonous snakes and scorpions. Avicenna made medicinal remedies from chicory to improve vision, normalize digestion and heal joints.
Description of the plant
Almost everyone knows what chicory looks like, its delicate blue flowers are scattered across fields and meadows, swaying on thin stems along roads and along ravines, it can be found in all city parks where the grass has not been mowed for at least some time. You can even say that this plant is a weed, since it sprouts with its strong, spindle-shaped thick root, reaching a length of up to 1.5 m, through everything, in spite of everything, however, chicory is not a simple weed, but a golden one. Given its valuable properties, people grow the medicinal plant on an industrial scale in special areas with clean soil for further processing and use in the food industry and medicine.
The rough and ribbed stem of the plant, reaching 1.2 m in size, contains milky juice, like the root. Chicory blooms for a very long time, almost all summer, and the flowers do not appear at the same time, but gradually replace each other, creating the impression continuous flowering... IN middle lane common chicory is found, and closer to the southern borders next to it you can find salad chicory, soft juicy useful leaves which is used to prepare snacks.
Composition and properties
Milky juice medicinal plant contains a large number of bitterness such as lactucin, lactucopicrin and taraxasterol. These bitter substances stimulate appetite, which explains the use of the roots and herbs of the plant to improve appetite. Various resins and pectin are present in all parts of the plant, which has a positive effect on the condition of the stomach and intestines. The fruits of the plant are saturated with protocatechol aldehyde, and in the chicory root and leaves there is water-soluble inulin - a polysaccharide used to feed diabetes patients in the form of a sugar substitute, vitamins of groups A, B, C, E and PP, chicorine, pectin, choline, proteins, fats, essential oils, a large number of micro and macro elements. That is why young shoots, stems and leaves of chicory are recommended for dietary nutrition.
The medicinal properties of the plant are unusually wide. Chicory removes harmful toxic substances from the liver, restoring its functions, the infusion of its inflorescences improves the condition of the heart and the functioning of the nervous system. If you boil chicory root, medicinal properties the resulting funds have a diuretic and choleretic effect, therefore, nephritis, hepatitis and cystitis are treated with a decoction of the root. The root of the plant has astringent properties and lowers blood sugar by acting like insulin in patients and is therefore used to treat diabetes. Chicory leaves have the same effect, which is why it is so beneficial to eat them raw in salads.
Ground parts of chicory are used in the form of infusion. Coumarin glycosides are found in the flowers of the plant, which are used to thin the blood. However, like all medicinal plants, chicory herb and roots have both beneficial properties and contraindications. The plant is not recommended to be given to children under 3 years old, people with varicose veins, stomach or intestinal ulcers, as well as patients with hemorrhoids. Doctors do not recommend it for asthmatics and people with chronic bronchitis.
Procurement and storage
The roots of chicory are harvested in March or at the end of October-beginning of November, when the plant is not in a state of vegetation, and the ground part is either still absent or is already dying off. It is during this period that the maximum amount of nutrients accumulates at the root. Since the root is very long, it will be impossible to pull it out with your hands; you will definitely need a shovel. The root taken out of the ground must be rinsed and dried, and then cut across into small pieces. Drying in an oven or special oven is considered optimal. drying cabinet, however, many dry the roots simply under a canopy or in attics, after which they lay out the roots in paper bags or linen bags and put them in a dry place. You can store such roots for up to 3 years.
The chicory herb is harvested from June to September, preferably in the morning, after the dew has dried out, in an ecologically clean place, away from large highways and factories. The cut stems are placed on a fabric under a canopy or hung in attics, periodically checking the quality of the product and turning it over. The storage of the grass is carried out in the same way as the roots, with the only difference that the storage of the grass more than a year Not recommended.
Growing a plant
It is possible to grow this medicinal and edible plant both from seeds and by dividing the roots, and it is so unpretentious that absolutely any land is suitable for its cultivation, the only condition on the part of the plant is the requirement of good illumination of the site. The home doctor is quite winter-hardy and easily tolerates short-term frosts. When planting, the seeds are laid to a depth of 3 cm in well-loosened soil, which, after the introduction of the seeds, will need to be lightly tamped. After the appearance of the first few leaves, the seedlings are thinned out and phosphorus and nitrogenous fertilizers such as superphosphate, ammonium nitrate and potassium sulfate.
Although the plant is drought tolerant, it will respond gratefully to regular watering, grow faster, and the leaves will become softer and juicier. If at good care the plant does not feel well, then the acidity of the soil should be measured, since chicory does not like acidic soil. In this case, taking actions to reduce the acidity of the soil will help.
Several recipes
To get rid of excess weight, nutritionists have developed various herbal preparations, which include chicory, but you can prepare a healthy drink yourself:
- 1 tsp chopped roots should be poured with 500 ml of water, put the dishes on a small fire and boil for about 15 minutes. Let it brew for about half an hour, strain and take 100 ml 3 times a day 20 minutes before eating. In addition to weight loss, this broth will improve overall well-being and have a beneficial effect on the stomach and liver.
- For external use with eye fatigue and conjunctivitis, you can prepare such an infusion. 50 g of finely chopped roots and herbs need to be poured with 1 glass of boiling water, cover and let stand for half an hour. Then strain and use as eye compresses or lotions. With the same infusion, it is very good to rub sore joints.
- To get rid of skin diseases, you can prepare the following tincture of chicory: put 20 g of finely chopped roots and herbs in a small bottle and pour 100 g of vodka or alcohol, then close tightly and put in a dark place for a week. This tincture can be used to treat skin diseases such as eczema, allergic rashes, dermatitis, acne, as well as burns and purulent wounds.
Thus, chicory, which has only a positive characteristic, will help to cope with many ailments.
Cichorium intybus L.
Today we will talk about how chicory is useful, how you can use the beneficial medicinal properties of chicory in everyday life.
There are several types of chicory - mainly two cultivated and about 6 wild species with blue, blue, bluish-pink and white inflorescences. Common chicory is most widespread in Russia.
Common chicory is the first remedy in the treatment of diseases of the liver, gallbladder, spleen, gastrointestinal tract and metabolic disorders.
Common chicory - popularly called wild chicory, roadside grass, blue flower - this is a plant from the genus Chicory of the Asteraceae family, class dicotyledonous. Blue ligulate five-toothed flowers are collected in a rare basket, similar to a blue chamomile, are located 1 - 3 in the axils of the leaves. Flowers possess interesting feature: they open in the morning, and close by noon, you can use them to determine the time.
Common chicory is a perennial herb with milky juice in all parts of the plant, it can reach a height of 60 - 120 cm with a taproot up to 1.5 m long and an erect, branched stem. The basal leaves are dissected, collected in a rosette, and the upper stem leaves are alternate, lanceolate, small sharp-toothed, stem-embracing.
Chicory blooms at the end of June after the summer solstice - as if it knows that the sun has turned for winter, and summer for heat, and blooms until September; fruits - three-pentahedral glabrous achenes up to 2 mm long.
Common chicory grows almost throughout Russia on slopes, meadows, along the banks of reservoirs, along roads, near dwellings. Chicory herb is harvested during flowering, roots - in early autumn.
The flowers contain chicory glycoside, the roots contain the carbohydrate inulin, proteins, fructose, resin, organic acids, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3), vitamin C, minerals, and bitterness in the milk juice. Inulin is a substance that helps to improve metabolism and normalize work digestive system.
The scientific name of the genus Cichorium comes from the Greek words kio - I go and chorion - aloof in the field, the name is due to the fact that the plant often comes to the outskirts of fields. The specific name intybus is derived from the Latin words in - in and tubus - a tube, given to the plant for a hollow stem. The Russian generic name of chicory corresponds to the scientific name of the genus.
Chicory was known to the ancient Egyptians and Romans. Avicenna used chicory for fever, indigestion, nausea, and eye inflammation. A decoction of the root in the form of a bandage was applied to the joints for gout and to the bites of scorpions, wasps and snakes.
Chicory herb uses Chicory medicinal properties
In official and traditional medicine of many peoples, roots are used, as well as aerial part- chicory herb.
Preparations from chicory are used to stimulate appetite, improve digestion, with cholecystitis, kidney diseases. Chicory lowers blood sugar levels, therefore it is used in dietary nutrition sick diabetes mellitus, is used for the prevention and treatment of diabetes.
For jaundice, kidney and gallstones,
with an increase in the spleen and gastroenteritis, metabolic disorders prepare an infusion of chicory root:
- Pour 2 teaspoons of the chopped root into a glass of boiling water, stir, wrap, let it brew for 2 hours, strain. Take 2 tbsp. spoon 3 times a day before meals.
In case of stomach poisoning it is recommended to take 1 glass of chicory infusion daily for 3 to 4 days before breakfast and in the evening.
To improve appetite, to improve the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, with gastritis and incontinence prepare a decoction of chicory root:
- Pour 1 teaspoon of the crushed root into 0.5 liters of boiling water, boil for 10 minutes, then leave for 2 hours, strain. Add sugar and take 100 g three times daily before meals.
The tool can be taken for toothache, for rinsing the mouth , it is a good antiscorbutic agent.
With persistent furunculosis - take inside a decoction of chicory root, 100 g three times a day and externally - apply steam (steamed chicory root) to the affected areas or take baths.
For external use of infusions and decoctions of chicory, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties are used.
With eczema, prolonged furunculosis, to stop inflammatory processes:
- Pour 20 g of chicory herb into 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave in a water bath for 20 minutes, then cool and strain. Apply as a lotion.
Cold lotions from a decoction of the root or chicory herb are applied to edema - bags under the eyes, bruises.
In case of severe loss of strength, for rubbing weakened parts of the body an infusion of herbs with alcohol is used.
For the treatment and prevention of hypertension:
- Pour boiling water over 2 teaspoons of dried and chopped root or chicory powder, add lemon and honey to taste. Drink in the morning 20 to 30 minutes before meals.
CHICORIUM CONTRAINDICATIONS:
- with varicose veins, with hemorrhoids, with vascular disease and the cardiovascular system, since chicory has a vasodilating effect,
- with increased acidity of the stomach, gastritis, stomach ulcers, with diseases of the kidneys, liver and gallbladder - take with caution, after consulting your doctor,
- with an allergic reaction, individual intolerance.
Watch a short video on the health benefits of chicory:
Chicory drink benefits and harms
How is soluble chicory useful?
As early as the 19th century, chicory roots were roasted, ground into powder and mixed into coffee or brewed instead of coffee. Chicory should be used instead of coffee for people with cardiovascular and kidney disease. It gives the body vigor, but does not contain caffeine and does not have an exciting effect on the nervous and cardiovascular system.
The root of natural chicory contains up to 60% inulin, 20% fructose, so the drink has a sweetish taste. Drinking chicory drink helps to improve digestion and metabolism.
Soluble chicory also has useful properties, it is very common and easy to use. Usually, the packaging indicates the method of preparing the instant chicory drink:
- put 1 - 2 teaspoons of chicory powder in a cup;
- add half a cup of hot, but not boiling water, stir;
- Add sugar, milk or cream to taste - and the drink is ready!
You can also use instant chicory with the addition useful berries rosehip, hawthorn, sea buckthorn.
Another recipe that tastes good healthy drink chicory.
To prepare a drink you will need:
- 1 liter of water
- 1 tbsp. a spoonful of roasted ground chicory,
- 2 tbsp. tablespoons of orange syrup
- Apple juice.
Boil water with chicory, add orange syrup, cool, strain. Pour 1/2 - 3/4 cup of chicory drink per serving, top up apple juice taste. You can attach a slice of orange to the edge of the glass. Bon Appetit!
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Friends, do not get sick and be healthy!
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 most of Ukraine, Russia, in particular Siberia and the Caucasus.
Due to its many beneficial properties, chicory is widely used in folk medicine and cooking. On the basis of the herb, infusions, decoctions and teas are prepared.
There are chicory on sale in different states: as a dry herb, in a liquid state, ready-made tea bags and as a seasoning.
Chicory grows along field roads, along the banks of rivers, in fields and meadows. Many consider the plant to be a weed, unaware of its beneficial qualities.
Chicory has also been cultivated for a long time. In the CIS, since about 1900.
Another name is “Petrov's batogs”. They use the ground part and the root, by the way, the root has many more useful 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. It is easy to determine by its bright blue flowers. Milky sap is present in the stems and leaves.
The stem is covered with small hairs. Alternately on it, there are monochromatic green leaves of a lanceolate shape, pointed at the end. The flowers are blue, less often pink, located at the tops of the branches and 2-4 pcs. in the axils of the upper leaves.
The flowers form an inflorescence. The fruit is achene.
The flowering period is from June to September. It is at this time that many bees and other pollinators are attracted, thanks to the large amount of nectar.
Growing chicory at home
Any soil (preferably nutritious) and well-lit terrain is suitable for growing chicory. Chicory is thermophilic, but can survive minor frosts. Acid swampy soils are not suitable. Propagated by seeds, or by dividing the bush.
Plant formation 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.
Second year - seeds begin to form. They are sown in loose soil, deepening by 3-5 cm.
With the appearance of the first 3 leaves, young seedlings are thinned out with the addition of a fertilizer based on superphosphate, ammonium nitrate and sulfuric potassium.
In dry climates or dry summers, the bushes need to be watered to improve yield.
From the moment of sowing to the ripening of the fruit, at least 5 months pass.
Collecting and harvesting chicory
For medicinal purposes, use the root of wild and cultivated species. In autumn, 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 material is completely dry, periodically turning over. 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 off the stems up to 30 cm high, laid out on a flat surface in the shade with good ventilation.
Using drying, the temperature should not exceed 35-40 ° С. Periodically the grass is turned over. Store in tightly closed glass containers. It is impossible to use paper bags, since the grass is a way to absorb moisture and over time one whole lump is formed.
To obtain special aromatic additives in cooking, cultivation of the variety is used.
Useful properties of chicory
The calorie content of raw materials is 17 kcal, where proteins are 8 kcal, fats are 2 kcal, carbohydrates are 8 kcal.
The composition includes the following vitamins and minerals:
- vitamin C
- group of vitamins B
- resins
- potassium
- calcium
- sodium
- magnesium
- iron
- organic acids
- carotene
- tannins
Chicory is an essential food for diabetics and contains 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 the intestinal microflora. Soluble chicory perfectly replaces color and taste coffee that does not contain sugar and 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 arrhythmias, and in large quantities leads to serious chronic diseases.
Eating a lot of sugar leads to excess weight. Insulin is a fructose polymer that does not raise blood sugar levels.
Chicory treatment
IN ancient egypt, chicory was used as an antidote for the bites of poisonous snakes and insects, on its basis, people were able to prepare medicinal drugs for indigestion, inflammation of the eyes.
In addition to treatment, chicory is useful as a preventive measure.
The herb is an excellent dietary product due to its high fiber content.
Has proved to be effective in the treatment of gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, liver, gallbladder, and dysbiosis.
It normalizes the work of the heart and heart rate, slowing it down, promotes vasodilation and removes cholesterol.
The root contains glycosin, intibin, which restores the work of the central nervous system, reducing tachycardia.
Part of 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 for the preparation of antipyretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Tinctures are used to treat skin, psoriasis, furunculosis, removal of acne, eczema, for the healing of wounds and bites, to restore vision.
Chicory juice is used in various recipes, along with other foods, which we will discuss next.
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 is allowed to be taken as a prophylaxis as a tonic, thanks to various beneficial trace elements.
Drinks remove toxins and toxins from the body, relieve puffiness, normalize fluid balance in the body, relieve nausea and prevent heartburn.
Chicory stimulates bowel movements, increases appetite. But it should be remembered, any reception medicinal herb, including chicory, should be taken in limited quantities, after consulting a doctor.
During pregnancy, the decoction cleanses the blood from various impurities that can be dangerous to the fetus.
Reception of infusions during lactation
Get rid of excess weight
The root of the plant has unique properties removal from the body, in particular from the 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 chopped 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 an improvement in well-being and lightness in the stomach. The herb reduces perspiration and repairs the liver.
Chicory baths
Baths are excellent for cellulite. Using a thermos, 2 tbsp. l. Pour the herbs with boiling water and leave for 1 hour. Pour the entire container into a bath and take 20 minutes every other day for 2 months.
Decoction to strengthen hair
50 grams of grass and roots, pour boiling water in a volume of 500 ml, boil for 20 minutes, then cover and leave for 3-5 hours. The finished broth is filtered and rubbed into the hair. After 15 minutes, wash off the hair under running water.
Making a chicory drink
You can buy dry chicory, or make your own from the roots.
Buy plant roots, rinse well under running water and dry.
Put in a skillet and fry over low heat until all moisture has evaporated. The root will emit a specific odor with a slight bitterness. Chop the finished roots, place in a container and pour boiling water over. 1 tsp raw materials, pour a glass of boiling water, bring to a boil and cook for 3-5 minutes, then, when covered, let it brew a little. Drink the broth along with milk, with the addition of lemon (a few drops of juice) and sugar.
Chicory recipes
- For superficial treatment: 50 grams of herbs and roots, chop and pour 250 ml of boiling water. Let it brew, covered, for 20 minutes. Strain the broth and use it as an eye lotion. Washing with conjunctivitis is excellent. The broth is rubbed with sore joints.
- Preparation of tincture for surface application: 20 grams of roots and herbs, chop and add 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, turnips and tropoli 50 grams each, mix. 2 tbsp. l. collection, pour 500 ml of boiling water and let it brew for 2-3 hours. Drink this volume in 2 days, dividing 3-4 times a day.
Contraindications
Chicory can, under some circumstances, cause harm to the body, so always consult your doctor first.
It is forbidden to take any infusions and decoctions inside with varicose veins, vascular disease, bronchitis, hemorrhoids, coughs, 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
With 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, with hypertension.
Useful only real soluble chicory, which contains a large amount of inulin, without any impurities.
You need to buy chicory in a sealed package, in a dry and crumbly form. Prefer tin cans.
But many manufacturers add flavors to natural chicory, various herbal additives, soy, or acorn, and sometimes even replace it altogether. All the benefits are contained solely in the root, 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.
Perhaps it is difficult to find a person on Earth who has never seen this plant in his life. True, not everyone knows that it is this blue flower that is called chicory. This perennial herb from the Astrov family is widely used in medicine, cooking and cosmetics.
What does it look like?
The stalk of chicory is erect, resembling a green twig, with a height of 20 to 130 cm, depending on the soil, moisture and light. The stem is rough, slightly branched to the touch. Basal leaves are rather large, with small denticles along the edges of the leaf; closer to the stem, they taper, forming a stalk. Upper leaves very small, oblong on the stem. In the axils of the leaves and nodes with the branches of the stem, buds and flowers are located. At the top of the stem there are from 1 to 5 flowers, and only on one plant with favorable conditions their number can reach 50.
Blooms from June to October. In late autumn his blue flowers pleasing to the eye often right up to the establishment of the snow cover. Their size is 1.5-2.5 cm. They have different colors depending on the illumination, soil fertility and other conditions. On the sunny place they turn blue-violet, in more shady places- light blue or blue, sometimes pink or completely light flowers down to pure whites.
The shape of the flower resembles an aster or a chamomile, only in the center is not a dense basket, like in camomiles, but sparse stamens of the same blue or blue... The ends of the petals are more often 5, less often 3, 7 or 9 teeth. The root is from 30 to 79 cm long, slightly branched or straight, light brown, milky juice is released at the fracture. It also contains stems and leaves. Seeds are small, ripen in autumn, are in oblong brown boxes.
Where does it grow?
The distribution area of chicory is very extensive. It covers the temperate, subtropical and tropical zones on all continents except Antarctica. It grows in meadows and on lawns, next to buildings and in forest glades, along roads, on wastelands and pastures. It is often found in gardens and vegetable gardens as a weed. Some growers grow chicory specifically for its sake. medicinal properties... Breeders also began to work on it, and some are trying to bring out varieties that have decorative qualities, others - varieties used as vegetable crops... Leafy varieties are valued for the leaves that can be used in vitamin salads, root varieties - for preparing first and second courses and as a substitute for coffee.
In Belgium, this plant ranks second among the vegetables used in food, in Holland - third, in France - fourth. Among the largest producers of chicory are Italy, Spain, USA, China, Belarus and Ukraine. In Russia, the history of cultivation is two hundred years old. There is even an old variety - Yaroslavsky, which is still found in fields and gardens in the Yaroslavl, Novgorod and Ivanovo regions.
The history of the use of chicory goes back centuries. Hippocrates and Galen were aware of its beneficial properties, and in the Middle Ages, Avicenna wrote a whole treatise, which was called the Treatise on Chicory.
Useful and medicinal properties
Chicory roots are very high in inulin. This polysaccharide is broken down by the action of gastric juice, turning into fructose, which causes a decrease in blood sugar levels, which is important for diabetics. But the benefits of inulin are not limited to this. It enhances immunity, removes "bad" cholesterol, cleanses the intestines from toxins and toxins, promotes the multiplication of bifidobacteria in the intestines, increases hemoglobin, strengthens bones, improves metabolism and protects the liver, promotes the absorption of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and copper from food.
Inulin can be bought at the pharmacy, but in chicory it works in combination with other substances that enhance its effect.
Chicory has a choleretic, diuretic, sedative, vasodilator and antimicrobial effect.
It is used in medicine for a very impressive number of diseases, these are:
- hepatitis;
- gastritis;
- stomach ulcer;
- anemia;
- anorexia;
- exhaustion;
- thyrotoxicosis;
- diabetes;
- pancreatitis;
- cystitis;
- nephritis;
- urinary incontinence;
- enteritis.
In traditional medicine, this list is supplemented by:
- insomnia;
- impotence;
- toothache;
- gout;
- heartburn;
- constipation;
- inflammatory eye diseases;
- myopia;
- hyperopia;
- joint pain;
- tuberculosis;
- hypertension;
- angina;
- inflammation of the lymph nodes;
- toxicosis of pregnant women;
- allergy;
- psoriasis;
- eczema;
- diathesis;
- old wounds.
With the study and confirmation of medicinal properties, folk experience gains scientific recognition.
Compound
Chicory is the record holder in terms of inulin content. Its content in freshly harvested roots is 14-20%, and in dried ones - up to 70%. This is much more than Jerusalem artichoke roots. The roots and leaves contain B vitamins, including choline, which helps the brain. The leaves contain a lot folic acid(100 g more than half the daily requirement), a significant amount of ascorbic acid, iron and potassium.
There are other minerals (calcium, magnesium and phosphorus), but their content is not so great. Of the microelements, it should be noted the high content of zinc, copper, chromium and manganese in the leaves and roots of chicory, there is also selenium, nickel and zirconium.
The bitter taste is due to the glycoside intibin. The leaves contain up to 4% protein, as well as coumarins and flavonoids. The seeds can contain up to 28-30% fatty oil, and there is also caffeine in the inflorescence.
Harm and contraindications
Patients with varicose veins and hemorrhoids, as well as people with low blood pressure, should use chicory with caution. Contraindicated in case of high acidity of gastric juice and exacerbation of ulcers. Also, it should not be given to children under 3 years of age. The simultaneous use of chicory with antibiotics interferes with their absorption, therefore such a combination is undesirable.
What parts of the plant are used?
All parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes: rhizomes, leaves, small stems, buds and flowers. Fresh leaves are good for salads. Dried roots are used instead of coffee or are used to prepare various medicinal decoctions and infusions from them. For the manufacture of medicines, aerial parts of the plant are also used.
Collection and storage
The roots are harvested in late autumn, most often in October, when they contain the most nutrients. Harvesting can be carried out in early spring, but only at the very beginning of the regrowth of leaves, later the content of nutrients in the roots decreases sharply. It is better to do this after rains; it is much easier to dig roots out of moist soil, since the rhizome is more elastic in wet weather. The roots are carefully dug in from all sides to the full depth and pulled out. Then they are cleaned of the ground, washed in running cold water, dried with a paper napkin, small processes are removed with a knife, leaving main root and rather thick scions. Long roots are cut across into small pieces, while thick ones are also cut lengthwise.
You can dry the roots in indoor conditions within 10-14 days. The criterion for readiness is that when bent, the roots break with a bang, but do not crumble. You can dry it outdoors, but you need to protect them from rain, as well as from direct sunlight. Drying in natural conditions contributes to the maximum preservation of nutrients. If you don't have enough space or time, you can use dried fruit dryers.
You can dry chicory and under infrared lamp, if one is available, and if not, just in the oven. In this case, the roots are laid out on baking sheets lined with paper. In this case, the door must be left open, and the temperature should not exceed 50-55 degrees. Drying time will be from 5 to 7 hours.
The aerial part of chicory is also used for medicinal purposes. The upper part of the plant is cut off with a length of 30-35 cm. It is better to collect the plants in dry, clear weather, in the morning after the dew has dried. The collected grass is sorted out, the yellowed leaves are removed, the grass is cut into pieces 3-4 cm long or dried whole. This requires a dry, well-ventilated, shaded area. An attic or dressing room will do. In the latter case, it should be ventilated more often. It is better to dry the crushed raw materials on sieves for better air exchange... If dried whole, pallets can be used, remembering to stir daily. You can tie the grass in medium-sized bunches and hang. Drying is over if the stems break easily with a slight crack.
Dried roots are best stored in glass jars from dark glass. Shelf life is no more than 3 years. The roots can be ground in a coffee grinder and then lightly roasted. This product can be substituted for coffee. Store such a product in a dark place in tightly closed glass jars for no more than 2 years.
Dry herb can be stored for up to a year in paper bags, glass jars, or canvas bags. You can also dry the leaves of wild or cultivated salad chicory... They are laid out on baking sheets lined with clean paper. After drying, the leaves are crushed.
Application
In medicine
People's memory saved a lot old recipes chicory treatment of a wide variety of diseases. New recipes also appear. The root is used most often in the form of a decoction or infusion. To prepare the broth, 1 tsp. Pour the dried root finely ground in a coffee grinder with a glass cold water and put on fire. Cook for 2-3 minutes and let it brew. Take one glass 3 times a day with exhaustion, anemia and loss of strength.
The infusion is prepared by taking 2 tsp. chicory in 1 cup boiling water. Stir, wrap or pour into a thermos, leave for 2 hours. Take 2 tbsp. spoons before meals for diseases of the stomach, pancreas, liver and biliary tract. Infusion can be used to rinse your mouth with toothache and stomatitis. With boils, dermatitis, eczema, 100 g are taken orally 3 times a day, and also used externally in the form of baths and compresses. With paresis, sore spots are rubbed alcohol tincture from chicory herb.
In cooking
Cultural root or salad varieties of chicory are used for food, and in their absence, you can take and wild plants... The bitter taste of chicory roots and leaves is much less pronounced if they are soaked before cooking, although some of the nutrients are lost. The crushed roots of chicory are used as a flavoring additive in bakery, confectionery and pastries. They give baked goods a delicate nutty flavor.
Chicory can be brewed like tea, taking 1 tsp. powder in a glass of water. Moreover, it is kept on fire for 2 minutes. To improve the taste, sugar is added, or even better, a teaspoon of honey. The coffee drink is prepared from roasted and crushed roots. The preparation method is the same as for tea. Sugar and milk are added to the finished drink. Ground chicory makes a wonderful seasoning that gives meat, fish and vegetable dishes a unique taste. Cultivated root varieties form a medium-sized root vegetable that can be stewed and fried, and also added to soups.
You can add the plant to tomato salad in the amount of 1-2 roots for 4-5 pcs. tomatoes. Also add half a lemon, a teaspoon of sugar to the salad and season vegetable oil... Chicory varieties most often grown as leafy ones are witloof, endive, radicchio (or otherwise radiccio) and escariol.
Witloof is especially interesting. This delicious species forms a small white head of cabbage, appearance reminiscent of Chinese cabbage, only much smaller. It is wonderful both fresh in salads and fried in oil as a side dish for meat and fish dishes. In salads, it goes well with cheese, feta cheese, nuts, pears, apple and avocado.
In cosmetics
In medicinal cosmetics, ointments and tinctures with dried chicory powder are used. They are very effective for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and boils. For bags under the eyes, make a cold compress from the infusion of roots or herbs. Promotes chicory and collagen production and skin rejuvenation. It is also useful for hair. Chicory is used in shampoos that strengthen hair and promote its rapid growth and recovery.
You can use infusions that pour over your hair after washing. And you can prepare a hair mask by making infusions from the roots of chicory, burdock and lovage, apply it to the hair along with the thickening, hold for 20-30 minutes and rinse with water.
For what is healthier - tea or chicory, see the next video.