Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Chicory


Chicory perennial herb native It can grow wild and is also cultivated for its roots, flowers and leaves. The herb attains a height of three to five feet and has beautiful blue or lavender flowers. The plant has a taproot,. The leaves towards the base of the plant are hairy, like that of a dandelion. Due to these similarities, Chicory is often called Blue Dandelion.

Chicory root benefits. It acts as a stimulant, ensuring smooth functioning of the stomach, gall bladder. and liver Chicory is also known as a mild, non-irritating laxative and diuretic, particularly helpful in the treatment of chronic constipation. It is also considered as an effective blood tonic, useful in
treating anemia. Chicory flowers, seeds and roots are used for the treatment of gall bladder and liver defects.

Chicory roots are baked, ground and used as a coffee substitute or additive. It has a sedating effect on the nervous system that balances the stimulating effect of coffee.
Chicory is considered a relatively safe herb as it is widely used all across the world, Chicory root is rich in oxalates and should be avoided by people who have the tendency to produce kidney stones.

No comments:

Post a Comment