Cichorium intybus – cut root

Rustic and common in the European countryside, chicory is distinguished by its long, spindle-shaped roots. Once dried, they are used in decoctions or sometimes roasted for their nutty, earthy flavor. Their natural prebiotic content makes them a highly valued plant ingredient.

Description

Irregular pieces of light to dark brown, dry, fibrous roots. Earthy odor and very bitter taste after brewing or roasting.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Chicory, wild chicory, bitter chicory
• Latin name: Cichorium intybus
• Family: Asteraceae
• Part used: Root
• Shape: Cut
• Origin: Europe, Asia, temperate zones
• English name: Chicory root
• Name in German: Zichorienwurzel
• Name in Spanish: Raíz de achicoria
• Name in Italian: Radice di cicoria
• Name in Arabic: جذر الهندباء (Jadhir al-Hindibāʾ)

Main virtues

Valued for its invigorating bitterness, chicory root is used in cleansing blends, seasonal cleanses, or as an ingredient in warming infusions. It is also used in roasted form as a caffeine-free alternative.

Main constituents

Inulin (prebiotic), bitter lactones, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids.

Use and dosage

• Decoction: 1 tablespoon for 250 ml of water, boil for 10 minutes, let infuse for 5 minutes.
• Roasting: dry roast before decoction for use in hot drinks.
• Infusion: less recommended, prefer decoction.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Not recommended in case of allergy to plants of the Asteraceae family.
• Moderate use recommended in case of biliary disorders or gastric sensitivity.
• Avoid during pregnancy without professional advice.

History and origin

Used since ancient Egypt, chicory root was valued in the 19th century as a substitute for coffee, particularly during times of restriction. It has remained present in traditional infusions of Northern Europe and in peasant folk medicine.

Miscellaneous information

• Packaging: bulk or waterproof kraft bag.
• Storage: away from air, humidity and heat.
• Appearance: Irregular dark brown pieces.
• Odor: earthy, discreet when dry, more pronounced when hot.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• Hardy medicinal flora
• Traditional herbal medicine texts
• European nutritional files

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