Traditional medicine has long recognized chicory as medicinal plant. Based on its root they prepare delicious drink, reminiscent of coffee in its taste and properties, and the leaves and flowers are used for healing decoctions and infusions. But as you know, there is no panacea for all diseases, and like any other medicinal plant, chicory has a number of contraindications, so it should be used with caution. Today we will tell you the benefits and harms of chicory, how and when to collect it, and also describe in detail the rules for its use.

Use chicory correctly and it will definitely benefit your body

Plant characteristics

Chicory belongs to the genus of biennial or perennial herbaceous plants the Astrov family. Its root is strong, taproot, and penetrates quite deeply into the soil. In the first year of its life, bright oblong leaves are formed, collected in a rosette, which have a round or slightly narrowed shape. By the second summer, the formation of a rigid vertical stem ends.

The flowers are painted in a delicate blue hue, less often white or pink; are located on an individual stalk that extends from the top of the leaf. The inner petals are erect, the outer petals are short. In cloudy weather, the flowers are closed; in sunny weather, they begin to open sequentially upward.

Flowering of chicory begins in July and lasts until September, after which fruits - achenes - are formed.
Having looked at what chicory looks like, it should be said that it is very similar to cornflower, with which it is quite often confused. But in fact, these are completely different plants, although they belong to the same family.

Chicory is native to the Mediterranean. Today it can be found in the Northern and South America, Eurasia, Australia, North Africa and New Zealand. It grows in meadows, wastelands, forest edges, along the perimeter of fields and country roads. It prefers zones with a temperate climate, but, despite its “dislike” for high humidity, it can sometimes be seen even in the tropics.

Common chicory and salad chicory are cultivated; other species are wild. Huge fields are allocated for its planting. At the peak of the season, chicory root can contain up to 75% of valuable inulin, and this part of the plant is used as a coffee substitute or additive.

Procurement of raw materials

It would be useful to consider how to collect chicory. Certain parts of the plant require compliance certain rules blanks.

Collecting roots

The time to collect chicory root occurs in the second year of flowering of the plant. This process must begin in early autumn, when the leaves of the plant have withered and bowed - this indicates that the rhizome is maximally saturated with useful substances.

Important! The roots should be dug out of the ground and under no circumstances should they be pulled out. Otherwise, they can be easily damaged.

The dug up roots are sorted out, discarding the soft and rotten ones, washed and dried. In order for the raw material to be better stored, it is cut into small parts - thick roots along, thin roots across, after which they are put into linen bags and transferred to a dark place.

Grass collection

Chicory leaves, stems and flowers are harvested in July or August. It is at this time that they reach maximum juiciness and maturity. They are carefully cut and laid out in straight lines. sun rays. Dried raw materials are stored in glass containers in shaded areas.

What does the plant contain?

The composition of chicory is very rich valuable substances, among which:

• vitamins – A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, C;
• macroelements – potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus;
• microelements – iron, manganese, copper, selenium, zinc;
• inulin;
• glycoside intibin;
• Sahara;
• bitterness;
• resinous substances;
• tannins;
• organic acids.

About the benefits

And with that beneficial properties chicory does not end. It is capable of the following actions:

• antimicrobial;
• wound healing;
• diuretic;
• choleretic;
• diaphoretic;
• antipyretic;
• astringent.

Due to the presence of a large “portion” of inulin, chicory root is used in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. This substance “monitors” blood sugar levels and prevents spikes.

IN folk medicine chicory is used in the form of infusions, compresses, lotions and decoctions that help cure infectious and colds, anemia, migraines and insomnia. Alcohol infusions based on this plant exhibit high efficiency for wounds, cuts, insect bites and allergies.
How to use chicory tonic, helping to increase protective functions body. It dilates blood vessels and normalizes blood pressure, improves the digestion process and treats spleen diseases.

Chicory drink

The chicory drink is known as an excellent coffee substitute; it also invigorates and improves mood, but does not “irritate” the central nervous system. You can drink it in the morning and before meals, and at the same time saturate your body with useful substances. It has a positive effect on internal organs, increases appetite and perfectly tones.

But is there caffeine in chicory? The answer will be unequivocal - no! The chicory drink does not contain this substance and exhibits exclusively healing effect. It stimulates the heart, gastrointestinal tract, cleanses the liver and normalizes kidney function.

Note! The absence of caffeine allows people with high blood pressure. He doesn't violate heart rate and promotes vasodilation.

But is it possible to drink chicory at night? In this case, you should remember that:

• firstly, chicory has a diuretic effect, which will not allow you to fall asleep quickly;
• secondly, this drink increases appetite, so be prepared to be haunted by a feeling of hunger, which can also cause insomnia;
• thirdly, each organism is individual - chicory will have a calming effect on some, and stimulating on others.

For men

The benefits of chicory for men are as follows:

• male representatives often eat processed foods, fast food and other products instant cooking, the consumption of which leads to indigestion. This is where chicory comes to the rescue: it normalizes intestinal microflora and eliminate inflammatory processes;
• chicory has a diuretic effect, therefore it has positive impact on the urological system. But it is known that about 50% of men are susceptible to diseases of the genitourinary system;
• in addition, the chicory drink is recommended for representatives strong half of humanity who often drink alcohol. Chicory will remove waste and toxins from the body and restore its basic functions.

For diabetes

Chicory is considered best assistant for diabetes, as it contains a special substance - inulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels and also normalizes the functioning of the pancreas. This plant is used as follows:

• Grind dried leaves and chicory root;
• Pour 2 tablespoons of raw material into a glass of boiling water;
• boil the mixture for 30 minutes;
• leave for about 15 minutes, filter.

Drink the resulting decoction 100 ml three times a day half an hour before meals. Courses last one month, should alternate with breaks of 3-4 weeks.

For liver diseases

Chicory is useful for the liver because it helps cleanse it and restore its cells. With its intensive use, you can completely improve the functioning of this organ, and in some cases, avoid surgical intervention.

Contraindications

Chicory is a medicinal plant, and therefore has contraindications. Their list is insignificant, but in any case it deserves attention. Let's look at the cases in which the use of this plant is unacceptable.

1. Chicory is contraindicated for gout, as it contains calcium oxalates. And these substances in this case are equated to poisons. The same goes for people with rheumatoid arthritis and kidney stones.

   Note! According to medical experts, about 80% of kidney stones are caused by calcium oxalate entering the body. Crystals of this substance clog the kidney ducts and, as a result, the formation of stones begins.

2. Surprisingly, but problems with digestive system are also included in the list of contraindications. In this case, people with gastritis, gastric ulcers and duodenal ulcers should avoid chicory.
3. Chicory has vasodilating properties, so it should not be used for varicose veins.
4. The presence of large amounts of vitamin C in this plant makes it impossible to use products based on it for those who are predisposed or suffer from allergies.
5. Chicory is also prohibited for hemorrhoids, as its use can only aggravate this condition.
6. And lastly, individual intolerance product.

Undoubtedly, chicory is very useful product, but it should be used correctly. Remember the contraindications and be healthy!

Powdery instant chicory- This is the first substitute for natural coffee. The naturalness of the product without preservatives makes it more and more popular every year. The powder is prepared using special technologies, while the beneficial properties of the chicory plant are preserved. Therefore, the product is increasingly used for the prevention and treatment of many diseases.

Description of the chicory plant

Another name for common chicory is blue dandelion, which belongs to the aster family of plants. The Mediterranean is considered its homeland, but over time the plant spread and adapted to various climatic conditions. Grows in forests, meadows, motherworts, fields and roadside areas. For industrial purposes, the crop is grown in spacious fields. In addition to the domesticated regular one, there is also a salad subspecies. The leaves of the lettuce plant are used as an additive for salads.

The plant has a long, rod-shaped root. The stem is hard and straight. The leaves are small, oblong. The flowers are large, pink or blue, located on the stem. The root is more medicinal than other parts.

Composition of chicory

Chicory extract or syrup contains 263.8 kcal per 100 g. Includes:

• carbohydrates – 64 g;
• proteins – 1.95 g;
• fats – not detected.

Fresh root contains 379 kcal per 100 g. product. Including:

• carbohydrates – 4.7 g;
• proteins – 9.8 g.

A salad plant contains 23 kcal, and also per 100 g:

• carbohydrates – 4.6 g;
• proteins – 0.3 g;
• fiber fiber – 4 g;
• water – 92 gr.

The root is a storehouse of vitamins, micro and macroelements. Resins, phenols, acids, coumarin, tannins are components of the rhizome. Includes organic matter inulin. Inulin is a valuable carbohydrate that has a beneficial effect on the condition of the body. The concentration of inulin in the dry root is 50%. The leaves are rich in B vitamins, which are necessary to improve the functioning of the nervous system.

Soluble chicory: beneficial properties and contraindications

Benefit

As a drink, consume powdered chicory in soluble form. With proper production and technology, the drink can preserve everything positive properties plants. Chicory, what is the product useful for? The benefits of using the drink for the following conditions:

Harm

Unfortunately, in addition to positive influence to your health, chicory can harm the body. Main contraindications and harm:

How to choose a real medicinal product

The length of the plant's root can reach 15 meters. Get instant chicory can be done industrially. The rhizomes are dried, crushed and fried separately or together with other ingredients.

Flavored drink It’s easy to obtain, just dilute the powder with boiling water. Chicory does not contain caffeine, and its sweetish taste allows you to avoid adding sugar to the drink. Chicory is often used in cooking.

Found on the market different manufacturers soluble chicory, which release various types product. How to understand this diversity?

Scientific experts advise paying attention to the amount of inulin per 100 grams. powder. High quality and good product contains a large percentage of inulin.

Externally, the product looks like a dry powder without unnecessary lumps or changes. It is packaged in sealed packaging; storage also requires sealing. The powder can only be scooped up with a dry spoon. If moisture gets into it, then the powder becomes hard and it is not advisable to drink such a product.

Some varieties of the product add natural natural ingredients, such as ginseng, sea buckthorn, blueberry, rosehip, lemongrass, cinnamon and others. Additional ingredients enhance the taste and affect the properties of the drink. Everyone chooses how much and what kind of drink to drink for themselves, based on your taste preferences.

Chicory: use and preparation of the drink

If there are no contraindications to use, then you can drink 3-4 cups a day, preferably after meals. Typically, the amount of product that should be diluted with liquid per 1 glass is indicated on the package. But there are standard cooking recipes:

Conducted studies confirm that soluble chicory is beneficial for the human body, which useful substances retain their properties after industrial processing of the plant. That's why it's so common now consumption of instant chicory.

Chicory coffee is a childhood horror, a cheap drink that people drank due to poverty and the paucity of assortment in Soviet stores, just like carrot tea during the war. But now it’s the other way around: many have become seriously interested in chicory, of their own free will.

Chicory has long been known as a coffee substitute. But again: if previously they drank it mainly because there was no normal coffee in our stores, now they drink it with pleasure and out of love. From the diabetic and dietary products chicory coffee migrated to shelves with a “status” assortment.

The choice of chicory-based drinks is large, and in order to improve and enrich the taste, manufacturers produce instant chicory with various additives - sea buckthorn, lingonberries, blueberries, cinnamon, rose hips. There is packaged chicory - it can be brewed as tea, and there is ground chicory.

The taste is quite unusual, with bitter and sour notes. The plant does not belong to medicine, but is considered a dietary supplement. It is worth remembering that you can drink no more than 3-4 cups a day, otherwise you will have problems with cardiovascular system. Blood pressure may drop sharply or, conversely, rise. Chicory leaves are used to prepare exotic salads. They have a pronounced taste. Externally similar to Chinese cabbage. But the roots can be used for brewing drinks and preparing tinctures.

As already mentioned, the main raw material for all chicory products is the rhizome of the plant. Depending on the method of its processing, you get various options final product. There are only three main types:

• Liquid chicory. This is a concentrated extract, a kind of “extract” from the root of the plant. Liquid chicory is added as a flavoring to confectionery and spicy sauces, and also drunk in diluted form as a remedy for insomnia and increased nervous excitability.
• Ground chicory. To produce this product, chicory rhizomes are washed, dried, or rather, roasted in the oven or in special ovens, and then ground into powder. The drink is made by infusing hot or cold water on powder. The use of such an infusion helps to improve attention, normalize the functioning of the intestines and bile ducts.
• Soluble chicory. Perhaps the most difficult to prepare: in order to obtain soluble chicory, the plant root extract is placed in special spray dryers, from which the powder comes out. In essence, instant chicory is the same natural product, as ground or extracted, but there are some advantages to using it. It does not need to be infused for a long time, like ground chicory, and it is much more convenient to store than liquid, and besides, the shelf life of soluble chicory does not expire so quickly.

What are the benefits of chicory?

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 contribute 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.

The benefits of regular consumption of chicory include improving digestion, giving strength and energy, and normalizing sleep. In addition, the following beneficial effects on the body are noted:

• vasodilation;
• sedative effect;
• cleansing the liver and kidneys;
• relief for women with menstrual pain;
• saturating the body with minerals and vitamins;
• fight against anemia;
• improvement of hair structure;
• reducing the likelihood of fungal infections;
• help with intestinal disorders;
• preventing the formation of wrinkles;
• acceleration of wound healing, protection against bacteria;
• restoration of collagen in cells skin.

It is recommended to drink no more than 4 cups of instant herbal drink per day. You can't pour boiling water over it, only warm milk or water. In folk medicine, chicory is used to treat colds infectious nature and anemia due to the general strengthening properties of the plant root. In addition, the drink is used to eliminate the symptoms of many ailments, as it has diuretic, choleretic and diaphoretic effects. Alcohol tinctures are made from the herb to help treat insect bites and cuts, as well as decoctions (for compresses and lotions) and teas.

Chicory for weight loss

Chicory has long been deservedly famous for its unique healing properties. One of the main effects on the body can be noted lung effect losing weight. The roots of the plant help cleanse the blood of harmful impurities and remove toxins, which leads to weight loss.

To combat extra pounds we recommend cooking special remedy. Take 1 teaspoon of crushed chicory roots, add 500 grams of water and boil over medium heat for 10 minutes. After this the received healing decoction should be strained and set aside to cool. To get quick results, take 100 grams of the drink up to three times a day. The main thing is to remember that you should drink it 30 minutes before meals. In addition to noticeable weight loss, chicory has a generally healing effect on the entire body. In addition, he is able to cope with heavy sweating and restore liver function.

Chicory health benefits and harms

Chicory infusion is prepared as follows: take 0.5 liters of water per tablespoon of crushed roots and take half a glass 3-4 times a day before meals. The infusion is recommended for liver diseases, especially during the recovery period after viral hepatitis. Chicory root infusion has dietary properties, therefore it is recommended when overweight body and other metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders.

Chicory stimulates bile formation, relaxes smooth muscles: 2 tbsp. spoons of crushed chicory roots pour 2 cups of water and boil for 30 minutes, leave for 30 minutes, strain. Take ½ glass 3 times a day before meals.

As an external remedy, chicory infusion (2 teaspoons of crushed root per 200 ml of boiling water) is used in the treatment of eczema, furunculosis, psoriasis, and atonic dermatitis. For these diseases, phytoapplications are prescribed for 20-30 minutes daily for 3-5 days until inflammation decreases or until the weeping surface dries. Decoctions of roots and alcohol tincture used for washing wounds and abrasions, making phytoapplications for seborrheic and allergic dermatitis, acute manifestations eczema and other acute inflammatory processes. Based on chicory, rinses are produced that help with hair thinning and seborrhea of ​​the scalp.

For diathesis in children: lotions, douses - 4 tbsp. spoons of a mixture of crushed roots and aerial parts of chicory, taken equally, pour into 1 cup hot water, boil for 30 minutes, cool for 10 minutes, strain and squeeze. Take a bath at night. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times.

Juice of chicory, carrots, parsley, celery nourishes muscular system eyes, which gives amazing results in restoring vision defects. 200-250 ml of the mixture daily restores vision to normal in a few days or weeks, eliminating the need to wear glasses.

It is used for enlarged spleen as a strengthening, soothing, analgesic and tumor-eliminating agent: pour 2 g of chicory root with 1 glass of boiling water, leave, covered, for 30-40 minutes, strain. Take 1-2 tbsp. spoons 3 times a day. You can use chicory extract, which is sold in the store: ¼ -1/3 teaspoon per 1 cup of boiling water, stir and drink like tea with honey or sugar.

When treating eczema, take 2-3 glasses of decoction per day: 1 tbsp. pour 20 g of a mixture of chicory (root), dandelion, watch, fennel, buckthorn bark with 1 cup of boiling water, keep in a water bath for 15 minutes. Strain and squeeze out the remaining mixture. Bring the volume to 1 glass.

Can pregnant women drink chicory?

IN modern world, there is hardly a person who does not drink coffee. However, it is not recommended for a pregnant woman to drink this drink. If a woman in an “interesting” situation liked to drink coffee often before pregnancy, now in her situation she is simply obliged to reduce her coffee habit to a minimum.

But there is good alternative. If you can't imagine the morning without aromatic coffee, then you need to try the chicory drink.

It is not so popular, but many who have tried it no longer drink other drinks. It tastes very similar to coffee, and its properties are several times greater. Chicory is an “unsightly” plant, with small blue flowers. To prepare the drink, it is crushed as much as possible.

You can purchase ready-made soluble chicory root powder in almost any supermarket in the tea/coffee section. It is also widely distributed in pharmacies and specialized phyto-oriented stores. The product is clearly visible in a glass jar. In tin cans there is a danger of acquiring chicory ground into “dust” - in this case it is difficult to understand whether the manufacturer has diluted the chicory powder with something cheaper.

The chicory powder must be absolutely uniform and dry. There should be no lumps or balls - their presence indicates that the product was stored incorrectly, most likely in conditions of high air humidity. It is very convenient to use chicory in small “sticks”, bags in which a portion has already been measured. In this form, chicory is convenient to take on trips, to work, anywhere - poured the contents of the stick into a mug, poured hot water and enjoy the excellent taste of the miraculous drink.

Collection and preparation at home

Collecting and harvesting chicory root at home is an amazing process. Most housewives wonder when it is worth digging, preparing and collecting chicory root. Harvesting occurs in March or late autumn. The most favorable conditions for collection - it is rainy weather, when the soil softens. They try to carefully dig up the root without damaging it. Then, after the process of extraction from the ground has passed, the above-ground part of the shoot is delicately trimmed, and the root is washed under cold running water. All that remains is to place the chicory root on an open surface to dry it in the sun.

Drying chicory roots occurs not only on fresh air. You can also use the oven, but the temperature should not exceed 40 degrees. Before drying, it is necessary to clean the prepared material from rotten roots and cut it into small pieces, preferably across. Properly dried roots can break when deformed. There's nothing wrong with that. Don't be alarmed.

As you already understand, chicory root extract has not only amazing taste qualities, but also rich in beneficial microelements that can significantly improve your well-being. Stay healthy.

Chicory: contraindications for use

The same components that provide beneficial influence, can cause harm in some diseases and physiological conditions body.
Chicory is contraindicated for:

• pregnancy due to the increased likelihood of allergies in a pregnant woman;
• lactation, since the substances contained in the plant penetrate into breast milk and may cause undesirable consequences in a sensitive child;
• allergies to cross allergens: pollen of ragweed, marigolds, daisies;
• cholelithiasis is not in initial stage, characterized by the presence of large stones: the composition of drinks and syrups with chicory is characterized by a choleretic effect, which can affect the displacement of stones and blockage of the bile ducts;
• gastritis and peptic ulcer stomach, dysplastic changes in the gastric mucosa due to irritating effects on the damaged surface;
• for varicose veins, hemorrhoids and some other diseases of the vascular system;
• with severe diseases and dysfunctions of the nervous system due to stimulating effects;
• V childhood from birth to 3 years.

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

Chicory - composition and beneficial properties

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

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

The use of chicory in traditional medicine

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

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

Contraindications

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

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

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

Chicory - recipes

• Chicory drink– invigorating, tasty and healthy drink from the root of the plant is quite capable of replacing coffee - it, like coffee, activates the nervous system, improves mood and stimulates the functioning of internal organs, but, unlike drinks containing caffeine, does not have harmful effects on the heart and blood vessels. This drink improves blood circulation, normalizes blood pressure, and is recommended for headaches, increased irritability, heart disease and decreased protective forces body.

  Today you can buy chicory in specialized stores. dietary nutrition or in pharmacies. You can be offered it in 3 types - instant chicory, fried and liquid. Each of them has its own characteristics of preparation and use. Thus, fried or ground chicory is considered the healthiest and most delicious; to prepare it, the root of the plant is lightly fried and ground. With this processing, the beneficial properties, taste and aroma of the plant are preserved as much as possible. Soluble chicory is obtained by special processing root, it is dried and ground. Liquid chicory - obtained by extraction - extracting useful substances from the root by evaporation.

  To prepare a drink from chicory, pour 1 tsp or 1 tbsp of the raw material into 1 tbsp of hot water or milk and let the solution brew. There are no exact brewing proportions here, just like when brewing regular tea; everyone determines the required proportions themselves, choosing a drink with a richer or weaker taste. Drink chicory at any time of the day; it is equally useful in the morning, lunch and evening; however, it is not recommended to drink more than 2-3 cups a day. You can add milk, sugar or honey to chicory.

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

Vitamin A;- vitamin B;- vitamin C;- vitamin E;- potassium;- sodium;- magnesium;- calcium;- iron;- pectin;- inulin;- proteins;- fat;- choline;- chicorine;- essential oil; - carotene; - organic acids; - glycoside inhibid; - mineral salts; - bitter and resinous substances; - tannins; - gum.

Collection and preparation of chicory

Chicory – tall plant With blue flowers and long healing root, reaching up to 1.5 m. Since ancient times, this plant has been famous for its medicinal properties. Residents of many countries use chicory leaves to make salads, dry the roots and prepare a drink from it that replaces morning coffee. When reading the works of European writers of past centuries, you can often find mention of chicory.

Chicory is harvested in the fall, when the flowers and leaves wither, and the root is carefully dug out. Clean, get rid of small roots and rotten parts, wash and dry in the sun for 5 days.

You can check the readiness of the root by breaking it. If a noticeable crunch is heard, the root is considered ready for use.

The dried plant can be stored for 3 years in paper bags.

Beneficial properties of chicory and their uses

Chicory leaves are added to salads; they are rich in vitamin C, but they should not be consumed in large quantities, as they can cause allergies. All the benefits of chicory mainly lie in its healing root.

Chicory is very popular because it is used to make a drink that tastes like coffee. Chicory coffee is prepared as follows: 100–200 g of dry plant root is roasted until light brown. Then grind it in a coffee grinder, brew 1-2 teaspoons of ground chicory root with a glass of boiling water.

Consumption of chicory during pregnancy

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To prevent the drink from being too bitter, add sugar and cream or honey. You can also grind dry rosehip berries along with the root.

Recipe for making chicory tea: pour 1 teaspoon of chicory roots into 250 ml of cold water, bring to a boil and cook for several minutes. Then strain the tea and add honey to it.

People who cannot drink natural coffee due to high pressure, chicory coffee will perfectly replace it and give the same vigor and wellness. For those who are accustomed to instant coffee, manufacturers have prepared a gift - instant chicory, which contains all the vitamins and beneficial substances of the medicinal plant. Those who have low blood pressure should avoid chicory.

Chicory is good to drink with milk, it helps to absorb it, you can also prepare pleasant cold drinks from the root of the plant with the addition of honey, lemon, apple juice. In addition, chicory is added to various dishes and confectionery products.

The medicinal properties of chicory have anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, sedative, diuretic, choleretic and hypnotic effects. A cup of chicory coffee or tea in the morning gives energy, and in the evening it cures insomnia in older people.

Inulin, found in chicory, is a polysaccharide that is used as a substitute for starch and sugar, so chicory can be included in the diet of patients suffering from diabetes mellitus. Potassium normalizes the condition of the heart muscle and the whole body, B vitamins have a positive effect on the nervous system, iron – on the hematopoietic system.

Chicory is used as a vasodilator for atherosclerosis, tachycardia, and arrhythmia. To treat arrhythmia, prepare a decoction as follows: pour 1 tablespoon of crushed roots with 2 glasses of water, boil and leave for 2 hours, then strain the decoction, add 1 teaspoon of honey and drink half a glass 3 times a day.

Chicory is used for the treatment and prevention of gastritis, diseases of the kidneys, spleen, liver, and improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. There are many folk recipes that help get rid of ailments.

So, for the treatment of gastritis and an enlarged spleen, it is recommended to pour 2 tablespoons of crushed root with boiling water (0.5 liters), leave for 2 hours, strain, drink half a glass 2 times a day before meals.

White chicory with mozzarella and fish sauce

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Before consuming chicory for people with gastritis and a diseased liver, you should consult a doctor.

Chicory helps with skin diseases and acne, and can also serve as a weight loss aid. The recipe is simple: boil 1 teaspoon of crushed root in 1 liter of water for 10 minutes, take half a glass 3 times a day.

If you drink a decoction of chicory to treat obesity, you need to take into account that chicory causes appetite, so you should try to combine this remedy with diet and exercise.

Tincture and decoction of chicory roots are used for toothache, joint diseases, gout, scurvy and as a general tonic. Fresh juice stems are useful for anemia.

Contraindications to the use of chicory

Like many medicinal plants, except great benefit, chicory has quite a few contraindications. It should not be used by people with stomach and intestinal ulcers, especially strict contraindications concern people with varicose veins veins, as well as those suffering vascular diseases, hemorrhoids. It is not recommended for allergy sufferers to consume chicory, because it contains a large amount of vitamin C, and it causes allergies in many. Chicory is contraindicated for people suffering from chronic cough, bronchitis and asthma.

Chicory is believed to be beneficial for children and pregnant women, especially if taken with milk. However, it can also cause allergies in children; in pregnant women, it can affect the health of the unborn child, although chicory is useful for women themselves, as it relieves constipation and heartburn, and cleanses the body of harmful substances.

Healthy eating: what and how to eat to avoid gaining weight

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