Chicory or Witloof (Chicorium intybus) - Chicory is found in Europe and the Near East, n... | Classical Remedies

Chicory is found in Europe and the Near East, northern and southern Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and North and South America it is a tall shrub that grows to 1.5m, it has large lower leaves that are club-shaped the smaller upper leaves with blue daisy flowers along the bristly stems. It has sharp-tasting young leaves and very bitter old ones. The large white root can be roasted and ground as a substitute for coffee. True endive (Cichorium endivia) is a species of chicory which is specially grown and used as a salad green 

Cultivation

A sunny, well-drained location which organic material and a complete fertiliser have been added. Plant seeds in spring where they are to grow and thin out later. To make the leaves more palatable, the roots of established plants are dug up and replanted into deep boxes of moist medium. As the "witloof" grows up through the sand the leaves are blanched and the flavour is much milder.

Health Benefits and uses of Chicory

• Young leaves can be used in salads where they add a piquant bitterness
• blanched witloof can be used either in salads or as a cooked vegetable
• Traditionally the herb was used as a health tonic, especially to aid liver function
• was also applied externally to cure a range of ailments
• has been used to replace coffee for decades

• used today in typical Roman recipes
• appetite stimulant

• increases the flow of bile
• lowers blood sugar and cholesterol

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Chicory

• In case of gallstones, consult with a physician before taking chicory

• Handling of chicory can cause dermatitis