Perennial herbaceous plant family Asteraceae - chicory. Its stems have flowers of blue, pink or white. The leaves of cultivated species are used to make salads and side dishes. The root is thick and strong, it is used to make a unique drink - a coffee substitute. Store shelves have a large selection of products such as instant chicory, beneficial properties and the contraindications of which remain an open question.

What is instant chicory made from?

The root of the plant is dried and processed. It goes through an extraction method in several stages - excess moisture is removed in an evaporation unit, and as a result, the resulting raw material is sifted through a special sieve and packaged. In past times, natural coffee was in short supply. The main available option for the majority of the population was a drink made from chicory; everyone knew what soluble chicory was good for the body.

Which chicory is healthier - ground or instant?

Today, market offers have formed 3 main types on sale:

• liquid;
• soluble;
• fried or ground.

How to decide what to buy - instant or ground chicory? It’s a matter of taste and choice for everyone – individual preference. The usefulness of the soluble and ground product is the same - the processing method maximizes the healing properties, rich taste qualities and full flavor. Freeze-dried is more convenient to prepare.

How is instant chicory beneficial for the body?

The soluble version is saturated with useful substances and contains vitamins and microelements. The benefit of soluble chicory lies in its presence in the drink. They promote a good mood and feeling great, formation of stable immunity. The root is rich in vitamins: A, B1, B2, B5, B6, B9, C, E, K, PP, choline.

Minerals:

• K - Potassium;
• Ca - Calcium;
• Mg - Magnesium;
• Na - Sodium;
• P - Phosphorus;
• Fe - Iron;
• Mn - Manganese;
• Cu - Copper;
• Se Selenium;
• Zn - Zinc.

When making a choice, you should carefully study what it is made from. A drink without additives is the most ideal option. A number of manufacturers include additions in the list of ingredients: ginseng, rose hips, cinnamon, lemongrass. Unscrupulous people may add ground acorns, and if the consumer has not tried the real thing, he may be disappointed, and the consumer may have contraindications to certain components.

What are the benefits of instant chicory for men?

Men spend a lot of time outside the home. They have a catastrophic lack of time to take care of their health. A good stimulant to maintain health and gain energy is to take a drink made from chicory. Drinking a few cups throughout the day will help improve your work internal organs and prevent certain diseases if there are no contraindications to its use. Benefits of instant chicory for men:

1. Beneficial effect on the digestive organs - will support normal functioning pancreas, liver and intestines.
2. Promotes the development of bifidobacteria in the gastrointestinal tract - providing an anti-inflammatory effect on the membranes of internal organs, it can have healing effect for stomach ulcers, cirrhosis, hepatitis. Eliminates dysbacteriosis and constipation.
3. Normalizes the functioning of the heart and blood vessels - which is important for those suffering from atherosclerosis, tachycardia, coronary heart disease and dilates blood vessels.
4. Maintains normal functioning of the central nervous system. Will relieve migraine attacks, lack of sleep, depression.
5. It has a positive effect on brain function due to the presence of vitamin B.
6. has a diuretic effect, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the urological system.
7. Reduces blood sugar levels in diabetic patients and serves as a preventative against the disease for a healthy person.
8. How prophylactic from osteoporosis.

What are the benefits of instant chicory for women?

The natural components that the root of the plant contains have endowed it with a number of medicinal properties. It is widely used in the manufacture pharmaceuticals. During industrial processing of the initial raw materials, the usefulness of soluble chicory is preserved. Therapeutic effect and preventive effect:

• has antioxidant properties;
• relieves muscle pain;
• relieves stress;
• treats insomnia and migraine;
• supports healthy microflora;
• increases immunity;
• cleanses cholesterol;
• promotes the removal of toxins from the body;
• lowers blood pressure.

The benefits of instant chicory for weight loss

It is impossible to say that instant chicory for weight loss is an ideal remedy. Chicory contains inulin - it prevents constipation, absorbs toxins, promoting the development of bifidobacteria, and has a diuretic effect. Passing through the digestive system, inulin, like a sponge, removes heavy metals. Changing your diet, adding sports or exercise plus - consuming chicory without sugar will have a positive effect on your figure. Soluble chicory has beneficial properties and contraindications that must be taken into account when using it for any purpose.

How to brew instant chicory?

There is no special secret to how to brew instant chicory correctly. When cooking for the first time, do not add large number powder, trying to get a rich color. Although it is healthy, not everyone will fall in love with its taste from the first sip. But super coffee that was prepared without taking into account taste preferences can disappoint.

How to drink instant chicory correctly?

The drink is characterized by astringency and bitterness. After several uses, you can easily determine a more pleasant combination and proportion. As with regular coffee, add sugar as desired. For those who are interested in how to drink instant chicory to benefit their figure, there is one rule - do not add anything. If the taste initially disappoints, you can reduce the dose of the sweetener gradually, and then eliminate it altogether.

Is instant chicory good for you with milk?

The benefits of consuming instant chicory are due to the presence of protein and fructose. The lack of caffeine allows you to consume it before bed. It is excellent for toning the body. If you drink instant chicory with milk, you can reduce your appetite. High concentration inulin will lead intestinal microflora in order, antioxidants will have a rejuvenating effect on the body. It is allowed to be used in small doses during pregnancy and lactation, unless there are contraindications from doctors.

Doctors strongly recommend that everyone give up excessive addiction to coffee. For coffee lovers this is not at all easy. But an undeservedly forgotten chicory. If we compare the properties of chicory in terms of benefits and harm with the characteristics of coffee beans, the advantage will clearly be on the side of the former. Moreover, coffee will never be able to compete with chicory in terms of variability of use in cooking, medicine, and cosmetology.

Pay attention! Chicory is not only a coffee substitute, but also an excellent dietary supplement and seasoning.

Let's see if this statement is so true.

Chicory is a healthy coffee substitute

What is chicory made from?

Chicory- a drink made from the roasted, powdered root of a plant with the same name. It contains the astringency and characteristic bitterness inherent in coffee. The aroma is not so intense, but pronounced, invigorating, and very pleasant. Stores sell soluble chicory extract in powder or liquid form.

It is made by extracting the roasted and crushed root of the plant into a concentrated infusion. For instant chicory, the substrate is dried to produce a freeze-dried powdered product.

When making liquid chicory, the infusion is further enriched useful components: stevia ( natural sweetener), extracts of medicinal herbs, berries, root vegetables, etc.

How to make a drink from chicory

Making a coffee drink from instant chicory is simple and easy. Just dilute the powder warm milk or add a spoonful of liquid sweetened concentrate to a cup hot water. A good mood and energy boost for the whole day are guaranteed, and without the usual dose of caffeine!

The healing properties of chicory are unconditional, especially for those who are unable to refuse a tonic morning drink, but for one reason or another cannot afford to drink coffee.

The absence of caffeine while maintaining the tonic qualities of the drink is only a small part of the advantages of this amazing plant. In fact, the beneficial properties of chicory are described in much more wide range. First of all, the product is considered as a healing product for the body.

Can pregnant women drink chicory?

Carrying a child requires special attention from a woman. She must strictly monitor her lifestyle and especially her diet. Is it possible to drink coffee during pregnancy? Doctors recommend abstaining. This drink It should be excluded from the diet or replaced with chicory. The taste of this product is very similar to a regular cup of coffee, but the amount of vitamins in it is much greater.

Chicory during pregnancy is not only possible, but also necessary to be consumed.

Experts have conducted many studies and have proven that the elements contained in chicory replenish the reserves of those vitamins that a pregnant woman loses during the first trimester.

Chicory contains ferrous iron, which has a beneficial effect on hemoglobin levels. The root of this plant includes many vitamins: vitamin C, ascorbic acid, pectins.

During pregnancy, women often suffer from constipation. Chicory can eliminate the problem because... the elements included in it restore digestion and remove toxic substances.

During the period of bearing a child, a woman can gain extra pounds. Chicory, in turn, improves metabolism and relieves the expectant mother of unwanted extra pounds.

The heart of pregnant women works harder. A chicory drink also helps maintain heart function.

Chicory is able to isolate a pregnant woman from feelings of nausea and heartburn.

You can improve the taste with milk or cream. Lovers of sweet drinks can add honey or sugar to chicory.

But even this number of advantages does not allow you to consume chicory more than 3 cups per day. Due to its diuretic effect, larger amounts of the drink can lead to dehydration. Also if a woman good appetite Chicory should be reduced in consumption. Because it increases appetite.

Important! Having many positive qualities, chicory also has contraindications. Therefore, women carrying a child should consult a specialist before consuming it.

Chicory for the heart and blood vessels

The mere fact that instant chicory does not contain caffeine speaks in its favor for the cardiovascular system. Plus, the root of the plant after heat treatment contains such important components, like potassium and magnesium. This is due to the medicinal properties of chicory, which are manifested by the effect of normalizing the functions of the cardiovascular system, stabilizing heart rhythms, and increasing the amplitude of contractions of the heart muscle.

The product has a positive effect on the condition blood vessels. In this case, the benefit of chicory lies in its ability to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of formation in blood vessels. cholesterol plaques, causing the development of various pathologies.

Especially important This effect of chicory on the body is for middle-aged men and women, who are at risk for the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Tachycardia, hypertension, atherosclerosis, ischemia, and many other diseases recede when you give up coffee in favor of a drink made from soluble chicory.

Let's say a few words about how chicory is useful for the nervous system. The product contains many vitamins, in particular B vitamins. Thanks to them, the body is filled with energy and receives powerful charge cheerfulness.

Moreover, liquid chicory extract and its powder analogue, unlike other tonic drinks, do not produce an arousal effect. On the contrary, chicory has a moderate calming effect on the nervous system, which is extremely important for people exposed to constant stress.

Chicory is a natural supplier of inulin

Inulin, as an extremely necessary polymeric organic compound for the human body, has recently been talked about. It turns out that this substance plays important role in the process of digestion, general metabolism. Inulin is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and improves immunity.

In chicory, the concentration of inulin is high (up to 50%), therefore, in the form of an instant coffee drink, herbal infusion, or juice, it is recommended to use it as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent for the following conditions:

Diabetes mellitus;
reduced immunity;
problems in the gastrointestinal tract.

The benefits of chicory for diabetes mellitus manifest itself in improving the patient's condition by lowering blood sugar levels. Vitamins and chicory acid play a role in increasing the body's defenses.

Regularly drink infusions from chicory flowers and herbs, as well as a coffee drink from liquid extract or soluble powder is useful during periods of seasonal pandemics for the prevention of viral and colds.

The same inulin promotes normalization metabolic processes, removing toxins and waste from the gastrointestinal tract, improving intestinal microflora, which generally has a beneficial effect on digestion. The healing properties of chicory have been proven in the fight against dysbiosis and accompanying intestinal disorders, ulcers, and gastritis.

The benefits of instant chicory for weight loss

The benefits and harms of chicory are discussed very actively in matters of weight loss, which are always relevant for women. Is chicory really and why is it useful for those who want to normalize weight?

For weight loss, the benefits of chicory are due to the following substances included in the product:

1. Inulin lowers blood glucose levels, thereby neutralizing harmful influence sugar to the body. Drink instant drink made from chicory is recommended for those with a sweet tooth who cannot give up their favorite delicacies.
2. Thiamine converts carbohydrates, fats and proteins into useful energy.
3. Riboflavin helps quickly break down fats, thereby helping to lose excess weight.
4. Triterpenes increase the metabolic rate, making the process of losing weight easier and faster.
5. Pectin reduces appetite, suppresses hunger, and prolongs the feeling of fullness.

Just one cup of instant chicory in the morning instead of the usual coffee already promotes weight loss. Additionally, to lose weight, it is recommended to drink 100 ml of decoction from the root of the plant three times a day, half an hour before meals (boil 1 tsp per 0.5 liter of boiling water for 10 minutes).

In the evening it is advisable to take anti-cellulite medicinal baths from an infusion of chicory herb. The weight loss effect of such procedures will increase many times over. In addition, your well-being and mood will improve.

Chicory - a cure for anemia

In terms of iron content, the product is not inferior to apples, pears, and liver. However, iron is absorbed from chicory much better and in larger quantities. That is why it is recommended to drink an instant drink from this amazing plant as a prevention and treatment of anemia. This is especially true for children, people who do not receive good nutrition, women during pregnancy.

Important! It is not advisable to “whiten” chicory with cow’s milk!

In combination with milk, instant chicory can be harmful digestive system, causing intestinal upset. In addition, when interacting with milk, the medicinal properties of chicory for anemia are reduced due to a decrease in the degree of iron absorption.

As an alternative, doctors recommend using the plant equivalent of animal milk. Optimal options– rice, soy, coconut, nut milk, which can be bought in the store healthy food or cook it yourself.

Cleansing the body with chicory

The range of medicinal properties of the plant includes, among other things, diuretic and choleretic. The product has the property of dissolving sand and small stones in the bile ducts, cleanses the liver well, and helps remove toxins and waste from the kidneys.

Special recommendations for the use of chicory apply to men who like to drink. This unique plant quickly neutralizes alcohol toxins, helping to return to normal after a heavy libation. Thanks to it, the functioning of the heart improves, blood pressure normalizes, and the kidneys and liver are cleansed of harmful substances.

When is chicory harmful?

We looked at the benefits of chicory. However, one cannot fail to mention the harm that can be caused to the body if this product is used incorrectly.

WITH medical point In terms of the main contraindications of chicory are:

Varicose veins, some others vascular diseases.
Haemorrhoids.
Gastritis.
Chronic bronchitis.
Gastric ulcers.
Asthma.
Some chronic heart pathologies.
Individual intolerance to product components.
Age up to 3 years.
Lactation.

Conclusion: Failure to comply with the regimen and dosage of the product may cause unwanted effects: irritation, insomnia, increased appetite, impaired liver function, etc. In a word, despite the enormous benefits, chicory has quite serious contraindications. Therefore, consultation with a specialist regarding the rules for using chicory as a preventive and, even more so, therapeutic agent is required!

Video: Chicory benefits and harm

Good afternoon to everyone interested in natural products. This article is about an amazing plant with beautiful blue flowers– chicories. The article will be useful to those for whom coffee is contraindicated, but who adore it. When I was young, I preferred natural coffee. With age, preferences had to change. I switched to chicory, but before that I asked myself: what beneficial properties and contraindications does the chicory drink have? And how often can you use it?

Are there any beneficial substances in chicory?

To make the drink, it is not the beautiful blue flowers or stems with leaves, but only the roots. They contain a polysaccharide that has a sweet taste - inulin.

It is obtained both in the form of an amorphous substance and in crystalline form. Inulin is highly soluble in hot water. This is a carbohydrate that is not broken down by enzymes in the human body and belongs to dietary fiber (fiber). Its areas of application:

1. Food. Adding inulin to foods imitates the presence of fat in them and reduces calorie content. Used in dietary nutrition.
2. Pharmaceutical. Used in the production of dietary supplements.

Why is the polysaccharide inulin interesting?

It helps the human body:

• Remove heavy metals and radionuclides.
• Stimulate the growth process bone tissue. Inulin has a positive effect on the body's absorption of calcium.
• Good for the liver. Helps therapeutic treatment hepatitis B and C.
• Strengthen immune system person.

The plant contains carotene, 10–20% fructose, microelements (K, P, Ca, Na, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ce, Zn, Cu). Given this amount of useful substances, not only chicory is cultivated for the production of a drink, but also a salad variety.

For reference: all the fiber that is extolled in dietary nutrition is carbohydrates. In order not to frighten people with this information, the word “carbohydrate” is omitted from the literature and only “fiber” is left.

What is the use in folk medicine?

This is a medicinal plant. If you have any diseases, consult your doctor. In folk medicine it is used as medicine to obtain various effects.

• Choleretic.
• Diuretic.
• Calming.
• Antipyretic.
• Anti-inflammatory.
• Sugar-lowering.
• Antihelminthic.
• It is also used in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal pathologies.

The plant does not contain caffeine, so the drink is useful for people with cardiovascular diseases: Hypertension and Tachycardia.

Is the drink good for people with diabetes?

Diabetes is a way of life. I have to go on diets all the time. At high sugar in the blood, it’s good to drink a cup of chicory. It contains a polysaccharide, which gives it a pleasant sweet taste and does not increase blood sugar. Has proven itself in the prevention of diabetes. Inulin may reduce sugar cravings. Thus, alleviate the patient's condition.

How to prepare the drink?

There is no need to walk along the road with a shovel, dig up roots, wash, dry, fry, grind. All you have to do is go to the nearest supermarket and just buy. You can find two types of chicory powder in the grocery department:

1. Soluble. Before getting into our cup, the root undergoes impressive processing, but retains its beneficial properties.
2. Insoluble. Less processed, but no less healthy.

I won’t talk for a long time about what diseases and how it is necessary to brew the root, when and how to take it. I'll limit myself to the most simple recipes, which can be prepared at home and at work. Chicory can imitate the taste of coffee; properly roasted root has a bitter and tart taste.

After purchasing a packet of instant powder, prepare yourself a cup of the drink. To do this, just put 0.5 teaspoon of powder in a glass of hot boiled water and stir. You can drink it with milk, sugar, honey.

Making a drink from ground chicory is similar to making a cup of brewed coffee. Pour 2 teaspoons of powder into 200 ml of hot water. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Let it sit.

The instant drink is often sold with additives: blueberries, rose hips. They not only give it a varied taste, but also add other groups of vitamins and microelements.

Contraindications

Are there any contraindications to the use of chicory? There are no natural products without contraindications, but there are few of them here.

• Should not be used when antibacterial therapy. Slows down the process of absorption of antibiotics.
• Use with caution when varicose veins veins It can worsen the disease.
• If you have an allergic reaction to vitamin C, you should avoid the drink. It is rich in this vitamin.

If you decide to replace your favorite coffee with chicory, take its purchase seriously. Dishonest manufacturers add cheap apple pectin to the product to make more profit. Buy a powder that says natural extract. Avoid artificially enriched foods.

If you want to make your own chicory powder, give it a try. I didn’t succeed, although I dug up large roots, cleaned them, cut them, dried them, and it didn’t go any further. So I won't brag about it.

I tried to describe in a popular form what the chicory drink is, its beneficial properties and contraindications. If the article has aroused interest and may be useful to you or your friends, please share social networks or leave a comment. Goodbye, and enjoy your morning cup of this healthy drink.

Best regards, Vladimir Manerov

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Comments to the article: 11

1. Svetlana 2017-01-21 at 00:16

   I know that chicory has many beneficial properties, but I never learned how to drink it. When I had stomach problems I had to give up coffee, but it turned out that chicory only vaguely resembles my favorite drink.

   Answer

2. Love 2017-01-21 at 06:59

   At our work everyone drinks liters of coffee, but I drink healthy chicory. No, of course, in the morning I can drink a cup of coffee, but I think that drinking coffee all day is just too much, so I replace it with chicory. At the same time, its taste is a little like coffee, and there are so many benefits! True, I love the drink without additives, just instant chicory, without extracts.

   Answer

3. Olga 2017-01-22 at 06:45

   I have been drinking chicory for about a year for two reasons:
   1. I really love the taste of coffee, but natural coffee immediately makes my heart pound and my hands shake. This does not happen with chicory and I can enjoy it pleasant taste and don’t worry about your health.
   2. My sister recommended that I drink during inflammatory processes, not as a medicine, but as a prevention. I have chronic pyelonephritis, I can’t say exactly how chicory affects it, but I’m definitely not complaining about my health.

   Answer

4. Natalia 2017-01-22 at 16:29

   True coffee lovers, of course, will not approve of such an alternative. However, if it is important for you to feel good, then refuse overuse I'll still need coffee. Chicory is a pretty good substitute for your favorite drink, especially if you add a little milk or cream to it.

   Answer

5. Natalya 2017-01-22 at 21:45

   I have never tried chicory, but I have heard that the drink made from it has a very specific taste, and it is very vaguely similar to coffee. I wonder what will seem tastier for a lover of “classic” coffee - chicory without additives or with various berry additions?

   Answer

6. Andrey 2017-01-23 at 03:53

   I hate chicory drink! Maybe this has remained with me since Soviet times, when real coffee was in terrible short supply and everyone was offered a “coffee” drink. This drink was made from chicory.

   Answer

7. Gregory 2017-01-23 at 09:35

   Excellent article, a wonderful “hymn” to chicory. And for this, many thanks to the author of this portal, which I visit every day to view new materials. However, I will not sing in unison. Because I don’t drink coffee or chicory. Only tea, and practically switched to green, which is what all visitors to the portal and those who want to fight for healthy image life activity and wish you! By the way, I also gave up sugar in light of its packaging in bags. There is quite enough of it in other products, so why eat “white death”?

   Answer

8. Lida 2017-01-23 at 10:14

   Unlike coffee, chicory is very beneficial for the body. It can be used not only healthy people, but also for those who suffer from various diseases. It wouldn’t hurt in some cases to once again replace a cup of coffee with a cup of chicory drink.

   Answer

9. Gregory 2017-01-25 at 00:14

   I agree with you, Lida. Many people still don’t just drink chicory, but add a spoon or two to their coffee. When I drank coffee, I practiced this practice, but I did not like either the taste or the combinations. I think if you drink, then it’s just one thing and not mixing.

   Answer

10. Anna 2017-01-27 at 05:59

    Thanks to the author for the article, I was just looking for a replacement for coffee, which is very harmful. Why? coffee washes out vitamins and minerals and is just as harmful as soda, but it’s very difficult to get out of the habit, so I’m looking for a replacement and came across an article. Thanks, we'll try the chicory. Health and longevity to everyone!!!

    Answer

Chicory is a delicate, beautiful, tall plant with blue flowers that can be seen along many roads. Many unknowing people consider it a nuisance weed, but that is not the case. Chicory is divided into wild chicory, nicknamed by the people “the bride of the sun,” and cultivated chicory, which is used for salads, but it is not recommended to prepare it instead of coffee. When discussing the benefits and harms of chicory, it is worth noting that main value The plant is its long root, reaching almost fifteen meters. It contains many easily digestible substances and is used to prepare tea and coffee drinks, cakes, and is often added to sweets.

Compound

All plant parts are used in folk medicine because useful substances are found in all its parts, leaves, roots and flowers. The composition of chicory includes:

• sugar;
• protein;
• vitamins: C – ascorbic acid, group B – thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), nicotinic acid(B3);
• organic acids (chicoric acid, etc.);
• microelements in the form mineral salts: potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron;
• inulin from 14-20%;
• glycoside intibin;

Useful properties of chicory

1. Help with diabetes. Chicory root contains up to 20% of the polysaccharide inulin, a natural substitute for sugar and starch, extremely important element when feeding patients with diabetes. Inulin has a beneficial effect on the course of diabetes mellitus types 1 and 2, due to its ability to normalize blood glucose levels. Inulin normalizes carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, activates the fat burning process.

2. Helps with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, with inflammation of the gastric and intestinal mucosa. The beneficial properties of chicory are most pronounced in the treatment of diseases gastrointestinal tract, thanks to the ability of the chicory drink to effectively relieve inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Improves appetite.

Inulin is not broken down in the stomach; this polysaccharide begins to be absorbed only in the large intestine. The body does not need to produce additional enzymes to process this substance; intestinal bacteria contribute to its breakdown. The breakdown products, in turn, stimulate growth useful flora, which stimulates intestinal activity, helping to get rid of waste products and toxins. Thanks to this effect, inulin is considered a prebiotic that helps fight dysbiosis and its manifestations, such as constipation. Inulin is also effective against salt poisoning heavy metals and radionuclides, which is very important when current state environment.

3. Improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Reduces cholesterol. The glycoside intibin contained in chicory has the properties of dilating blood vessels and relieving tachycardia, which is extremely useful for people with problems of the cardiovascular system.

Chicory helps reduce levels bad cholesterol. The potassium and magnesium contained in the plant support the activity of the cardiovascular system. This complex effect of chicory is very useful for atherosclerosis, hypertension, and coronary heart disease.

4. Strengthens the nervous system. Intibin has an effective calming effect on the central nervous system. The presence of B vitamins will provide a person with additional energy, good mood, sound sleep, so chicory is extremely useful for people suffering from migraines, depression, neurasthenia, and insomnia.

5. Help with anemia. Chicory is rich in iron, which helps increase hemoglobin for short time, which helps relieve a person from anemia. It is better not to add milk, since the calcium present in milk slows down the absorption of iron. Cow's milk Can be replaced with soy, rice or coconut.

6. Help with kidney and liver diseases. A regularly consumed chicory drink gradually dissolves kidney stones, acts as a diuretic, helps cleanse the liver, and is a choleretic agent.

7. Increased immunity. Chicoric acid helps strengthen the body's defenses. The removal of waste, toxins, and radionuclides also contributes to this. Chicory has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, astringent and anthelmintic effects.

8. Supports healthy skin, hair and nails. Thanks to its composition, chicory accelerates the restoration of collagen fibers, tones the skin, helps with wound healing, and is used for eczema and dermatitis. It also has a beneficial effect on hair. For these purposes, chicory infusion can not only be taken orally, but used externally.

Beneficial properties of soluble chicory

Soluble chicory – natural product, has the same useful qualities like regular chicory. For many, an instant drink made from chicory replaces classic coffee, although it differs from the latter in smell and taste. Despite the fact that the aroma of chicory is reminiscent of the smell of bread, no other plant can replace coffee so well. The taste of chicory resembles natural coffee, such a drink is considered exclusively healing drink. The beneficial properties of chicory mean that a drink drunk in the morning will invigorate the body, and in the evening it will calm you down and relieve insomnia. To reduce harmful effects caffeine lovers of natural coffee are recommended to add chicory to it. In the previous Soviet times to banks with instant coffee chicory was always added, which made it possible to replenish the body with the necessary nutrients.

The soluble product is obtained from the root of a mature plant by drying, roasting and grinding it. Since ready-made chicory powder is highly hygroscopic and quickly absorbs moisture in air, it is not possible to obtain dry soluble chicory. Therefore, in grocery stores you can most often find highly soluble chicory in the form of a viscous concentrate, sometimes with various additives that speed up the weight loss process. He doesn't call side effects, does not contain preservatives or chemical additives, has pleasant aroma and taste and can become a favorite drink for the whole family.

Some manufacturers produce an instant drink made from chicory with the addition of a small amount of natural coffee for those who could not give up their morning cup of coffee. It is available in various combinations with chamomile, cinnamon, and ginseng. A drink with added milk or cream is often included in the diet of children, as well as those for whom drinking natural coffee is contraindicated.

With regular consumption of this wonderful drink, the beneficial properties of chicory will help in the treatment and prevention of many diseases, ensure vigor and good mood.

What are the benefits of chicory juice?

Chicory juice mixed with celery, carrot, and parsley juice successfully affects muscular system eyes, nourishes it, helps to significantly improve vision, treat various defects and pathologies. Some people claim that, thanks to the above composition, they have restored their poor vision. It is also useful for anemia.

Chicory for weight loss

Of course, a drink made from chicory helps you lose weight, but you shouldn’t expect that drinking it will immediately give the expected result. Soluble chicory is only an auxiliary product that accelerates the loss of extra pounds together with physical activity and limiting the caloric content of everyday food. This product can also be used in various mixtures recommended for dietary nutrition. Soluble chicory will help you lose weight if consumed in combination with green tea, plum extract, anise. Reduction of excess weight occurs due to high content it contains inulin, which effectively reduces blood sugar levels and improves metabolism, which promotes weight loss and serves as a prevention of diabetes. In addition, chicory has a diuretic effect, which accelerates the burning and removal of fats from the body. Chicory will help relieve irritation and nervous excitement, which helps you maintain your diet, which is very important during dietary restrictions.

Of course, we must not forget that in order to speed up the weight loss process, you also need to limit the amount of food consumed, exclude fatty, starchy, sweet foods from your diet and start eating dietary products. Before breakfast, lunch or dinner, you should drink a cup of chicory drink - this will help you lose extra pounds much faster and improve your body shape.

Chicory for pregnant and lactating women

For pregnant women, chicory will help replace coffee and black tea, as well as cheer up in the morning and increase vitality. A chicory drink will cleanse the intestines, help get rid of constipation and swelling, prevent nausea and heartburn, lift your mood, and help cope with irritation. No special contraindications It has not been identified for use by pregnant women, except in cases of allergy or intolerance to this product.

Pregnant women should also take into account that chicory contains vitamin C. When consuming products containing this vitamin, it is important to know that it increases the tone of the uterus and this is fraught with negative consequences.

On the contrary, nursing mothers are not recommended to consume a drink from this plant (or other dishes). In some cases, a decrease in production was noted breast milk. The baby may experience severe agitation and an allergic reaction to this product.

Chicory in cooking

Chicory is used as a seasoning for desserts, coloring various creams and baked goods. If you dilute a tablespoon of soluble chicory in three tablespoons of water and pour the mixture into the dough at the kneading stage, this will give it a unique nutty flavor and aroma.

Young shoots and roots of the plant are used to prepare salads and snacks, boiled and stewed. Served as a side dish for meat or fish, as an addition to boiled pasta and potatoes. Chicory will help diversify your diet during fasting.

Recipe. Salad of boiled potatoes and chicory root (ingredient ratio 1:1). Boil potatoes and chicory in salted water, preferably in different saucepans. Cut, season with unrefined sunflower oil and lemon juice.

Recipe. Raw root salad. Amount of ingredients: take 2-3 tomatoes per 300 g of chicory root. Peel the root of the plant, cut off the side shoots, cut out part of the core at the base, which imparts bitterness, and rinse. Slice the tomatoes and root (thinly), add herbs to taste, season vegetable oil and lemon juice (fruit vinegar). The salad is ready.

Recipe. Stewed chicory is prepared from young shoots. They are washed and cut into pieces about 3 cm long. They are stewed in a saucepan over low heat with the addition of broth or water. 5 minutes before readiness add a little butter And lemon juice, salt to taste. Refueling ready meals béchamel or hollandaise sauce. Served as a side dish for roast meat. During fasting, season with vegetable oil and serve with buckwheat, boiled potatoes or pasta.

Young shoots (boiled for no more than 5 minutes) can be added to a spring salad, which is made from lettuce, apple, carrots and green onions. You can season this salad with fermented baked milk or natural yoghurt. Chicory will add piquancy to the dish and add vitamins.

How to brew chicory

For cooking delicious drink you need to pour 1 tablespoon of ground chicory into a cturk, pour 1 glass cold water, bring to a boil and simmer for a minute or two. Let it sit and strain. Add milk or cream, sugar or honey to the drink to taste.

Another brewing method. Brew 1 teaspoon of ground chicory immediately in a cup with boiling water. Let stand for 5 minutes, strain, add whatever is needed. The drink will be as tasty and aromatic as in the first recipe, but not as strong.

Chicory in folk medicine

1. For dysbacteriosis. An infusion of chicory prepared at home effectively helps with dysbacteriosis, urinary retention, and metabolic disorders. To prepare it you need 6 tbsp. l. pour chicory into a thermos, pour a liter of boiling water, leave, strain, consume 1 tbsp daily. four times a day before meals.

2. A remedy for high blood pressure. Pour 200g of chicory into 1.5 liters of water and cook for 3 hours. Strain the broth, add to the bath with warm water. Take such a bath for 10-20 minutes, this will help relieve headache and lower blood pressure.

3. Deworming remedy. You need to take 1 tsp. chicory root, tansy and yarrow leaves. Pour 0.5 liters of hot water and keep in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain the product and drink 100-150 g in the morning on an empty stomach. The course is 7 days. After 10 days, repeat the treatment.

4. Rinse for hair growth. 2 tbsp. Add chicory to 4 cups of water and boil for half an hour. Strain. Wash your hair and rub the decoction into the roots. Wait 15-20 minutes and finally rinse your hair.

5. Skin diseases. Chicory is often used in the form of a tincture as an external remedy. It treats old, difficult-to-heal wounds, and effectively helps in the treatment of skin diseases - atonic dermatitis, furunculosis, psoriasis, eczema. The tincture has a drying effect and helps reduce inflammation on days 3–5. Uses chicory and cosmetic industry. Rinses are created to grow and improve hair structure. Chicory is used in preparations that help restore hair growth during baldness. Chicory improves intestinal flora, which has a positive effect on the condition of facial skin.

6. Obesity. To lose weight, drink chicory infusion before meals 3-4 times a day, half a glass. Prepare the infusion as follows - 1 tbsp. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the crushed root, let it brew, then strain.

7. Liver diseases. For these diseases, drink the infusion, the same as in the recipe above (1 tbsp. roots per 2 cups of boiling water), plus you need to add 1 tsp. fruit vinegar and 2 tbsp. honey Drink the decoction hot, without restrictions during the day.

8. For diabetes, pancreatitis (during remission), stomach diseases. 1 tbsp. roots, pour 1 cup of boiling water, cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Let cool, strain. Take 1 tbsp. before every meal. The course of treatment is 1 month.

Harm and contraindications

No serious contraindications for this plant have been identified. But you should stop eating chicory if you have diseases such as:

• varicose veins veins;
• vascular diseases;
• asthma;
• bronchitis or chronic cough.

Ascorbic acid, which is part of chicory, can be harmful and cause unpleasant and unexpected consequences in people exposed to allergic reactions body. A large amount of vitamin C is also dangerous for pregnant women; it increases the tone of the uterus, so you need to be careful when consuming chicory.

Chicory stimulates appetite, this should be taken into account by those who control their weight or try to get rid of excess weight.

If we talk in general about the benefits and harms of chicory, then we can confidently say that chicory is most useful plant worthy of close attention. The main thing is that it must be used taking into account contraindications. If you haven't tried chicory yet, be sure to buy a small jar. Perhaps this is exactly your product and in the future you will become its true fan and admirer. Good health to you!

Chicory is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It belongs to the genus of biennial and perennial herbs. Chicory root and flowers have useful vitamins(A, B, C) and minerals (K, Ca). Made from a plant medicinal infusions, masks and drinks.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of chicory is rich useful elements. The main substance contained in the root of the plant is inulin. This is the main component from which sweetener and starch are made for diabetic products.

Composition of chicory:

• proteins;
• carbohydrates;
• dietary fiber;
• ash;
• inulin;
• fats;
• vitamins - A, C, B;
• minerals - K, Ca, Mg, Na, P;
• microelements - Fe, Mn, Cu, Se, Zn.

Useful properties

Chicory is included in the section medicinal plants. He has a large number beneficial properties for the body. The plant has bactericidal and astringent property.

Benefits of the plant:

• Has antimicrobial properties;
• It has a tonic, restorative, stimulating effect on the body.

Chicory root tincture is used to treat lichen, eczema, seborrhea and weeping wounds. A decoction from the plant will help in the presence of diseases of the kidneys, spleen, liver failure. The use of chicory improves human immunity and increases appetite. A drink from it will help get rid of excess weight.

Use in folk medicine

People call chicory as follows: Blue batogs, Petrov batogs or Petrov whip. This is due to the fact that the plant blooms on Peter's Day. People use all parts of the plant (flowers, roots, shoots, juice) and various infusions, ointments and drinks are made from them.

Decoctions and infusions are made from chicory flowers, which are used to treat neurasthenia and liver diseases. The root of the plant is used to make face masks to treat acne and flaking skin. It is also used to make drinks for the treatment of stones in gallbladder.

Young shoots of the plant are used to extract juice. The drink is taken to treat anemia or major blood loss. Chicory root contains a lot of iron, which helps increase hemoglobin in the human body. Chicory shoots are also used in cooking. They are fried, baked in dough, boiled. Upper part shoots are used to make puree.

For colds

If a person is sick, then at the first signs you can also take advantage of useful and healing properties chicory root. Its use increases protective forces the body and helps resist disease. The plant has antimicrobial properties, which helps destroy bacteria in the body.

Soluble chicory is used. It helps to cure:

• first signs of a cold;
• high temperature.

The recipe is simple: pour 2 liters of instant chicory into a large mug and pour boiling water over it.

For diseases of the liver and gallbladder

Chicory is used to treat gallstones and bile stagnation. Going to prepare the medicine herbal tea, which includes:

• dandelion and chicory root;
• trifol (three-leaf herb);
• agrimony;
• transverse mint leaves.

Drink recipe for treating gallstones:

1. The herbal mixture (2 tbsp) is poured with 0.5 liters of boiling water.
2. The drink is infused for 4 hours.

To treat stones, the resulting mixture is consumed for two days. If a person has liver problems, then the use of chicory root will have a positive effect in the recovery process. Should be prepared a collection of the following herbs:

• St. John's wort - 40 g;
• flowers of calendula and sandy cumin;
• buckthorn bark - 30 g;
• chicory - 30 g;
• knotweed grass - 20 g;
• chamomile - 10 gr.

A mixture of the above plants (20 g) is poured with 2 glasses of water. She should be cold. The drink is infused for 8 hours. Afterwards it cooks for 7 minutes. Recommended period of use is 1 day.

Chicory is also used for cirrhosis of the liver:

1. 1 tablespoon of dry plant root is poured with 1 glass of boiled water.
2. The mixture is boiled over low heat for 20 minutes.
3. The broth is removed, cooled and filtered.

As a treatment, the resulting decoction is taken 75 ml 3 times a day for two weeks.

In case of inflammatory processes in the liver, chicory drink has an anti-inflammatory effect. To prepare it, take dry grass (10 grams) and water (1 glass). The plant is filled with water and boiled for 30 minutes. The finished decoction is filtered and applied 50 ml 3 times a day. It is recommended to drink the medicine before meals.

Soluble chicory can also be used to prevent liver and gallbladder diseases. But it does not have the same effect on the human body as the flowers and roots of the plant in dry form.

For gastritis

Chicory for gastritis and ulcers is used depending on the stage of the disease. Prepared decoction from the roots of the plant:

• reduces inflammatory process;
• promotes the removal of toxins from the intestines;
• normalizes intestinal motility.

The chicory drink has beneficial effect if a person has gastritis with reduced secretory function. But it should be used with caution in hyperacid gastritis. Medicine recipe:

1. Boil 1 liter of water.
2. After it boils, half a glass of ground chicory is added to it.
3. The resulting mixture is boiled for another 30 minutes over low heat.
4. The drink is filtered and drunk 1 tablespoon at each meal.

Subject to availability peptic ulcers and gastric erosion, chicory has a restorative effect and promotes rapid healing of the epithal layer of the stomach. The plant also helps relieve inflammation.

For pancreatitis

Chicory root effectively copes with the first symptoms of pancreatitis. Infusions from it help improve stomach function and promote the production of necessary enzymes. Chicory root infusion recipe :

1. The root of the plant is ground into powder.
2. 5 tablespoons of chopped chicory are poured into a thermos and 0.5 liters are poured. hot water.
3. The drink is infused for several hours.

It is recommended to use a quarter glass of chicory root infusion before meals. Be careful, if the disease is at a severe stage, you must first undergo a course of medication, then follow up with chicory decoctions.

For diseases of the cardiovascular system

The benefits of chicory for cardiovascular diseases scientifically proven. The plant contains potassium and magnesium, which are necessary for the functioning of the human cardiac system. The presence of magnesium in the composition copes with tachycardia and a number of other heart diseases.

The root of the plant contributes to:

• dilation of blood vessels, which is the prevention of heart attack;
• increasing the amplitude of heart contractions;
• normalization of heart function.

Chicory decoction reduces the level of unwanted cholesterol in the blood, which is the prevention of diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, tachycardia and ischemic disease hearts. Recipe:

1. Powder from crushed dried chicory is poured with boiling water.
2. The drink is infused over low heat for 15 minutes.

Afterwards it cools and takes half a glass once a day. If you take chicory with ginger it will help strengthen cardiovascular system.

For diabetes

IN chemical composition Chicory contains inulin, which helps reduce blood sugar. This property is an advantage for diabetics. The drink from the plant is suitable for them as a medicine. Recipe:

1. The root is crushed and dried.
2. The resulting mixture is boiled and evaporated.
3. The dry residue from the boiled root is placed in sealed bags.

The drink is consumed warm instead of tea. You can add chamomile, cinnamon, rose hips to it and pour boiling water over it. For type 2 diabetes mellitus, a drink from a herbal collection is brewed. It includes nettle, and others. The drink is called "Lydia".

Use for weight loss

As already mentioned in the paragraph above, inulin, which is part of chicory, helps lower blood sugar levels. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) converts proteins, fats and carbohydrates found in the human body into energy. A component of chicory called riboflavin (vitamin B2) helps get rid of excess weight.

The chicory drink should be drunk after tomorrow and lunch. It is able to satisfy the feeling of hunger and prolong the feeling of fullness. Recipe:

1. The root is peeled, washed and cut into small pieces.
2. Fry over low heat until dark brown.
3. Grind to the size of coffee beans.
4. Pour boiling water over 2 teaspoons of the resulting mixture.
5. Leave for 10 minutes and you can drink.

Application in cosmetology

Chicory is in demand in cosmetology. Its composition has positive impact on human skin.

The plant is used in cosmetology for:

• deep cleansing of the skin;
• treatment of acne and acne;
• removing unwanted pigmentation;
• cell renewal.

Crushed chicory root is used to prepare face masks. They are believed to promote skin rejuvenation.

Anti-wrinkle face mask recipe:

1. A decoction (25 g) is made from chicory powder.
2. It is filtered and poured into seaweed.
3. The drink is infused for 10 minutes and then vitamin E (8 drops) is added.
4. The resulting mask is applied to the face for 30 minutes and then washed off.

Using this recipe helps restore smoothness. skin on the face.

For cooking chicory root masks for acne You will need the root itself (10 g), green clay (8 g) and pomegranate oil (6-8 drops). All ingredients are mixed until smooth and poured with mineral water. The resulting mask is applied to the face and washed off after 20 minutes. cold water. This mixture serves as an excellent prevention against the spread of infection and restores natural color faces.

To cook mask for dry skin from chicory root you need:

1. Mash the baked pumpkin (8 g) and mix with sour cream (10 g) and plant drink (15 ml).
2. The mask is applied to the face for 45 minutes and then washed off with a cotton pad.

This composition will help tone the skin and give it healthy looking.

Contraindications and harm

Despite all the beneficial properties of chicory, there are also contraindications to its use. Not recommended:

• Use chicory during pregnancy and lactation due to high risk the occurrence of allergies, such as expectant mother, and in a child;
• Use medicines based on chicory root in severe cases urolithiasis. Drinking a drink from the plant can cause stones to dislodge and blockage of the bile ducts;
• Abuse decoctions for diseases such as hemorrhoids and varicose veins;
• Use for problems with nervous system. A drink made from chicory root has a stimulating effect.