It used to be that if you weren’t well, you were sick – meaning you were affected with a disease or ill health – meaning it was time to call the doctor. A visit to the doctor meant ‘what can we do to get you better’ – meaning out comes the prescription pad – meaning the use of scientific medicines to treat the symptoms but not get rid of the cause of the illness. However, on the other side of the coin is the holistic method or natural method using naturally formulated medicines for healing which goes to treating the cause of the illness and not the symptoms. So what does this have to do with Chicory Root?
Chicory Root is one of God’s medicines, of which there are many.
Chicory or chicory root is a thick rooted blue-flowered perennial composite herb from the daisy family of flowers. It is widely known for its thick roots which can be dried, ground, and roasted to be used as flavoring, and today is considered to be another use for coffee in the form of a tea without the caffeine.
The flowers and young leaves are edible in salads. The flower buds can be pickled, and the roots boiled and eaten. That would be an interesting research project.
As a popular coffee substitute it does more than just take the place of your favorite breakfast beverage. It, as well, provides a boost of extra dietary fiber. Chicory root adds a smooth, creamy texture to foods, which makes it a great fat replacement in ice creams, margarines and dressings for those looking to effortlessly increase weight loss.
Chicory Root used most often to make an herbal tea has digestive-soothing effects; helps regulate loss of appetite, upset stomach, constipation and bloating. High in fiber it acts as a prebiotic — plus it supplies manganese and B vitamins.
A note on Caffeine – one of the main ingredients found in coffee, and even in small amounts of decaffeinated versions. Consuming caffeine can exacerbate stress, so cutting back on your intake can really help lower levels of epinephrine and cortisol, both of which are released during stressful situations as mentioned in a 2006 study published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. Since chicory contains no caffeine, it’s a great substitute to help reduce your caffeine consumption and keep cortisol levels in check.
How is Chicory Root beneficial health wise?
Some of the Benefits Of Chicory Root
- Aids in Digestion
- Improves Heart Health
- Anticancer Potential
- Reduces Arthritis Pain
- Weight Loss
- Treats Constipation
- Boosts Immunity
- Relieves Anxiety
- Helps Treat Kidney Disorders
Are there side effects?
As with any herb or medication of which there may be long term consumption, if not used properly or taken as directed or abused there will be resulting side-effects. Do your research to know and understand more about the precautions which are needed to be taken to stay away from the side effects of any herbal medicine.
The most common chicory side effects include: itching, skin inflammation, and skin redness. In addition: the side effects of chicory can include difficulty breathing and wheezing. Chicory can also cause: drug interactions and should not be taken with medications called beta blockers. Always consult your physician before trying something new like this.
Chicory Root can be purchased at your favorite Health Food Store as a powder, in granules, already roasted, etc. It is not found in its whole form, however, the salad version is endive which can be purchased in the produce department of most grocery stores.
Herbs are a wonderful addition for helping a person to get healthy and/or stay healthy. When purchasing herbal formulas I find the best ones on the market are those manufactured by Dr. Robert Morse, N.D. As a graduate of Dr. Morse’s International School of Detoxification, I have been taking his herbal formulas for years with absolutely no side effects. But, then again, I follow the instructions for use – to the letter.
God Bless!!
FYI-HEALTH TALK 