Chicory

Chicory

Chicory

Formal Name: Cichorium intybus
Supplement Forms: Flowers, herbs, liquid

Recommended Daily Allowance

  • Infants: (0 to 12 Months) N/A
  • Children: (1 to 13 years) N/A
  • Adolescents: (14 to 18 Years) N/A
  • Adults: (19 and Older) N/A
  • Lactating Women: N/A
  • Pregnant Women: N/A

Notes: No RDA info available.

Additional Information

History

The use of chicory dates back to ancient Egypt, over 5,000 years ago. Charlemagne loved the chicory herb, and grew it in his garden along with 74 other herbs. Originally, the herb was thought to reduce pain in breast feeding mothers. It was also prescribed in ancient times as a headache remedy.

Bodily Functions Chicory Assists

Chicory is most commonly used to aide in the body's digestion by eliminating and preventing intestinal worms. It also works to stimulate the appetite, fighting eating disorders in some individuals.

Foods High in Chicory

Chicory is sometimes used as a coffee additive or replacement, most frequently in the American South, India, Southeast Asia, and the Mediterranean. Chicory is also sometimes used as a flavoring in stout beers.

Ailment That Chicory Eliminates:
  • Eliminates intestinal worms
  • Stimulates the appetite
  • Treats gallstones and gastro-enteritis
  • Alleviates sinus problems
  • Soothes cuts and bruises when used externally
Side Effects/Pre-Cautions:
  • Traditionally, it was believed that eating too much chicory would cause vision problems. Fortunately, there is no scientific evidence indicating this to be true
  • Chicory should not be consumed by pregnant women
  • Chicory is recognized as a safe herb by the FDA