Chicory Root Uses

Chicory, or Cichorium intybus, is a perennial herb that grows in many parts of the world, including North America, Asia and Europe. Related to the daisy, chicory has a long history of use as an herbal remedy dating back to the 1st century. Chicory is also known as succory, blue dandelion and coffeeweed. The chicory plant bears attractive azure blue flowers, but its leaves and roots are the parts collected for medicinal purposes. Although bitter-tasting, roasted chicory root is a popular coffee addictive. Historically, chicory root was used as a liver tonic. Consult your healthcare provider first before using chicory to treat any conditions.

Cardiovascular Use

Chicory root contains inulin, a dietary fiber with applications for a variety of ailments, including cardiovascular disease. Chicory root may be beneficial in treating heart problems that result in an irregular heartbeat, such as tachycardia, fibrillation and arrhythmia. Drugs.com states that although more study is needed, extract of chicory root has been shown to be as effective as the heart medicine quinidine in slowing and stabilizing the heartbeat.

Digestive Disorders

The inulin contained in chicory root is beneficial for digestive disorders. Inulin acts as a natural probiotic, aiding the helpful bacteria in your digestive system, and it is often used as food additive in yogurt for this reason. Chicory also aids the absorption of calcium from the intestines. The website AltMD states that the indigestible fiber derived from inulin ferments within the digestive tract, acting to promote absorption of calcium and other nutrients from the large intestine. An herbal tea made from chicory root can be used to soothe an upset stomach.

Arthritis Conditions

Chicory root also has anti-inflammatory properties and appears to beneficial for use in treating osteoarthritis and gout. A pilot study published in 2010 in the medical journal "BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders" found chicory root to be effective in reducing symptoms of pain and swelling in 13 out of 18 osteoarthritic patients by 20 percent. Chicory root is well-tolerated by most people; the most common side effect is a dermatitis of the hands from handling fresh plant leaves.

Laxative Properties

Because inulin is a type of dietary fiber, chicory root also has some mild laxative effects and can be used to treat constipation. Chicory root can be taken as a dietary supplement or you can add its fresh leaves to a salad, in much the same way as dandelion leaves, in order to reap its benefits. Dried chicory root can be added to coffee or used to make an herbal tea.

Skin Inflammation

Chicory leaves can be crushed or bruised for use in a topically applied poultice. Chicory leaves contain a milky-white juice, similar to that of the dandelion, which has some anti-inflammatory action and can be used to reduce skin irritation and swelling.