- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe, Asia, Africa (North)
- Sanskrit
- Kasni
- Other names
- Wilde cichorei
- Traditions
- Ayurveda, Unani medicine, Western herbal medicine
Europe · Herb · № 225
Cichorium intybus
Herb · Europe
Chicory
Cichorium intybus
Traditionally attributed effects: diuretic, laxative, tonic.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
The root roasted as a coffee substitute or as a decoction; young leaves as a vegetable. No dosage is given here.
Use in traditions
From the 18th century the roasted root was drunk as a coffee substitute, especially during Napoleon's Continental Blockade and in wartime. Unani medicine (kasni) and Avicenna used chicory for liver and gallbladder complaints. Witloof (Belgian endive) and endive are cultivated forms. Sanskrit name: Kasni.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Diuretic, laxative, tonic.
Preparation and amount
Root.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Tonic, mildly laxative, diuretic, bitter; optimises digestion, promotes bile production, for gallbladder congestion.
Preparation and amount
Tea of the root: 1–2 tsp, 10–20 min, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1–3 dropperfuls a day or 1 dropperful after meals.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Aids digestion, stomachic, promotes menstruation; for disturbed menstruation, liver congestion, enlarged spleen and oedema.
Preparation and amount
Seed decoction 28–56 ml; liquid root extract 5–10 ml; root powder 3–6 g; root as a coffee substitute.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Preparation and amount
Edible flower.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionTincturePowder and kitchen