If you are a big coffee drinker, you can also try herbal substitutes, which, although they do not have the same pronounced energizing effect like this one, come with many other important benefits.
The plant is composed of chicory acid, related to cinnamon from artichoke leaves, bitter principles and inulin, a type of fiber with prebiotic action. Chicory also contains vitamins (A, C, B9, E), minerals (phosphorus, magnesium, iron), is a source of fiber, and antioxidants (flavonoids and carotenoids, which limit the oxidative process, preventing diseases related to aging). For therapeutic purposes, both the roots and the aerial part are used from the plant.
Good coffee substitute
Chicory is a healthy alternative to coffee. From the roasted and then ground chicory root, a dark powder is obtained, which can replace coffee. The powder is also commercially available. To make your coffee drink, use half a teaspoon of chicory powder in a cup of hot water. Then you can use 1 teaspoon to 150 ml of water. This liqueur does not contain caffeine and is indicated for digestive benefits (stimulates digestion, prevents constipation, protects the liver). Depending on your preference, you can add milk, cardamom, or ginger.
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In general, this coffee substitute has no contraindications. It is better to follow the instructions on the package. Pregnant women and people who are allergic to birch pollen or Asteraceae (marigolds, daisies, dandelions, sunflowers) should avoid this coffee alternative. Chicory powder can also make increase menstrual flow for women, so it is better to avoid it during menstruation.
What other benefits does chicory have: it lowers blood sugar
Chicory has a mild hypoglycemic action (lowers blood sugar). The decoction can be used as an adjunct to diabetes. It is prepared from 2 teaspoons of chicory root powder, which is left to soak for 8 hours in a glass of water at room temperature. It is filtered and the extract obtained is set aside. The plant left after filtration is boiled for another 2 minutes in another glass of water, after which it is allowed to cool. Finally, the 2 extracts are combined, and the medicine obtained will be consumed during a day.
Ideal for liver health
Chicory is also used as a hepatoprotective remedy to stimulate liver function. The plant has a choleretic-collagen effect (stimulates the production and elimination of bile), being indicated in biliary dyskinesia and cholecystitis. For hepatobiliary benefits, tea obtained from the aerial part of the plant can be consumed, which is prepared from a teaspoon of water to 1 cup of boiling water. 2-3 cups a day are indicated after main meals.
Supports digestive functions
Thanks to its laxative action, chicory fights constipation. The inulin contained in the plant stimulates the formation of good bacteria in the colon, supporting intestinal peristalsis and, implicitly, transit. Chicory also relieves indigestion and bloating, being a digestive tonic, and has a purifying effect, helping to eliminate toxins from the body. For digestive benefits, chicory can be administered in powder form, from which take 2 teaspoons of water a day, one in the morning and one in the evening.
