The Amazing Benefits of Chicory Root

Camille McClellan
Mar 27, 2019
2 min read

Chicory root is closely related to dandelion where both are bitter tasting and are excellent for the digestive system. Chicory root when it exists in the wild is an edible plant where the stems and leaves are used for culinary purposes. It's beautiful petals are lilac in color, and it is a close cousin of dandelion and lettuce.

Chicory root has been used for 1,000 years for all types ailments and contains powerful medicinal purposes. It is a hardy perennial and it’s name may have been derives for Succory, which is a latin name - “to run under.” The name was formed due to its deep roots which penetrate the earth it grows in. They often bloom from July to September.

The Amazing Benefits of Chicory Root

It's root has a deep color and that’s where all the nutritional and medicinal properties exist. Chicory root possesses properties that can help cleanse the liver and detoxify it. Two ounces of chicory root provides at least 4% of the daily value of fiber.

It contains vitamin C which helps fight infections and provides the kidney support with high amounts of potassium. It strengthens the immune system and supports the digestive flora to keep it balanced. It contains oligosaccharides called inulin that helps stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive system.

Chicory root also supports the thyroid gland. It also help support the formation of bones and healthy tissue that is vital for body structure and movement. It can be used as a liver tonic to support the liver. Many practitioners support their clients by providing tincture in drop form or a simple tea with dry herbs.

The root can be made into a delicious herbal tea. One of the great benefits is that it is low in calories for women that are looking to loss weight in the process. Other nutrients it contains are phosphorus, folate, Vitamin B6 and calcium.

The Many Culinary Uses of Chicory Root

The uses are delicious decorative dishes eaten in Europe such as Belgium and France. It can be blended beautifully with coffee. When infused this medicinal root makes coffee a bitter taste with a dark rich added color to it. Chicory root can be eaten as a root vegetable or a side dish to serve during a hearty meal. In Belgium the Chicory roots can be boiled and eaten with butter parsnips.

Health benefits of Chicory Root