Chicory

Chicory is recommended for liver disorders as a detoxifier. It also acts on the digestive system by reducing gastric activity, regulating intestinal transit, reducing bloating symptoms and regulating bile secretion. If consumed before meals, it increases appetite, and if consumed during meals, it reduces appetite.

It plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system and normal blood sugar, cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels.

Chicory has a purifying effect because it eliminates toxins from the body.

Chicory extract consumed during meals inhibits the secretion of the hormone ghrelin (responsible for hunger). At the same time, thanks to its inulin content, this extract stimulates the production of the hormone leptin (responsible for satiety), which inhibits appetite.Chicory is therefore effective in weight loss programmes because it combats the yo-yo effect (significant weight gain after a weight loss programme), which occurs due to hypersecretion of ghrelin during fasting.

It also contains tannin, which is disinfectant, astringent, detoxifying and has an antibiotic-like effect, helping to cleanse the skin and significantly reducing acne.

The inulin found in its composition is a powerful probiotic that helps develop beneficial bacteria in the human intestine, making the body more resistant to infections. Chicory is a good immune stimulator and helps the body fight pathogens by promoting the production of immune system cells and activating existing ones.

This tea is recommended for treating cardiovascular conditions. Because it helps remove bad cholesterol (LDL) from the walls of blood vessels, chicory tea helps maintain a healthy circulatory system.

It prevents high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, also due to its reduction of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

The tea is also recommended for treating stomach, liver and intestinal disorders.

Mix one tablespoon of dried, chopped leaves with 250 ml of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes, strain, cool to body temperature and drink.

Tea can also be made from chicory flowers. Make an infusion with 2 teaspoons of flowers in a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes, strain and drink warm, 1-2 cups a day. This tea is recommended for stomach ache.

A decoction of chicory root is obtained by mixing the powder with 200 ml of cold water, leaving it to rest for 8–10 hours, then filtering it.

Chicory coffee is obtained from chicory root that has been cleaned, washed, roasted and then ground. The powder obtained is prepared in the same way as coffee. Its effects are: elimination of toxins, reduction of appetite, intensification of fat burning and energisation of the body.

It is also sold as a tincture that can be stored and consumed for up to 2 years. When taken internally, the tincture is beneficial for cardiovascular conditions.

Pressing the fresh leaves and flowers produces a poultice that can be applied to wounds or areas affected by acne and boils.

All chicory preparations should be consumed with caution by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.

People who are allergic to this plant and those with gastritis or hyperacid ulcers should not consume chicory.