From Antiquity, we knew the benefits of chicory on the digestive level. This magical plant also has laxative and depurative properties as well as capacities to stimulate the liver. We take you on a discovery of chicory.
Known since Antiquity, the chicory is used as medicinal plant for his digestive and purifying virtues. It eliminates toxins of the body, of purify the blood and get rid of the fabrics of all impurities that can be harmful.
In addition, she has a tonic action which allows the tissues to be firmer afterelimination of toxins.
Learn more about chicory
Chicory is a herbaceous plant who comes from Europe, Africa and Asia. It is made up of leaves which are located at the base of the stem and flower heads, almost like the flowers of the dandelion.
Small feature, the chicory flowers change color depending on the time of day. At night, they are able to close but also to open when the Sun appears.
Chicory can measure about 1 m and has various varieties. It gets its bitter taste from the amarescents that compose it and also contains tannins, arginine, choline, glucosides and finally inulin. She is too rich in vitamins, trace elements and flavonoids.
The benefits of chicory
- Chicory awakens appetite
- It stimulates and protects the intestinal flora
- Chicory helpsassimilation from calcium and iron
- It strengthens the immune system
- Chicory ensures a good digestion
- As a bonus, this plant enhances the taste of food and therefore makes it possible to reduce sugar
How to use chicory for its benefits?
To benefit from the benefits of chicory, it can be eaten as a tisane (in infusion). For this, we pour 2 tablespoons of chopped chicory leaves and roots in a cup of water then let infuse for 15 minutes. This preparation is to be enjoyed in a cup, 3 times a day.
You can also infuse chicory grains in hot water for 5 minutes and add honey before drinking it. Chicory is not, however, intended for one use only.
The soluble chicory can be prepared with vegetable or animal milk. It can also be eaten mashed, gratin or soup. Finally, raw, it can be eaten in a salad.
We can prepare a softening lotion based on chicory just by doubling the doses recommended for the infusion.
Precaution for use and contraindications
The only recommendation before using chicory: do not consume it at doses very high because it can be harmful to the liver.
The allergic people to any of the components of chicory should avoid consuming it. As undesirable effects, we can note cramps, from diarrhea and bloating if you consume more than 20 g. It is because of inulin it contains. However, no undesirable effects concerning chicory leaves have been observed to date.
