Cichorium intybus – cut leaves

Wild chicory, with its serrated leaves and distinct bitter taste, is a hardy plant that thrives in calcareous soils. It is one of the emblematic species of European medicinal flora and is used in many tonic and digestive compositions.

Description

Dark green to brown leaf fragments, strong bitter taste, dry texture. Intense herbaceous aroma.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Chicory, bitter chicory, wild chicory
• Latin name: Cichorium intybus
• Family: Asteraceae
• Part used: Leaves
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Europe, Western Asia, temperate zones
• English name: Chicory leaf
• Name in German: Wegwartenblatt
• Name in Spanish: Hoja de achicoria
• Name in Italian: Foglia di cicoria
• Name in Arabic: ورقة الهندباء (Waraqat al-Hindibāʾ)

Main virtues

Traditionally used for its tonic and digestive effects, chicory is a bitter plant that can stimulate the appetite and be incorporated into cleansing blends. It is also used in rustic cooking in wild salads or vegetable dishes.

Main constituents

Inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 tablespoon per cup of simmering water, infuse for 10 to 12 minutes.
• Decoction: 5 minutes over low heat for a stronger herbal tea.
• Cooking: Add to soups or rustic salads after rehydration.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Contraindicated in case of allergy to Asteraceae.
• May increase bile secretion, moderate use recommended.
• Not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice.

History and origin

Already known to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, chicory was one of the medicinal garden plants. It is also known for its roasted root, but the leaves, more forgotten, have long been used in infusions and as a wild vegetable.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: cut plant in airtight kraft bag or loose.
• Storage: away from light, in a dry place.
• Appearance: dry green-brown fragments.
• Odor: bitter, vegetal.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• European medicinal flora
• Popular herbal medicine texts
• Works on Mediterranean ethnobotany

🔎 Information

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