Also known as: Cichorium Intybus, Blue Sailors, Barbe de Capucin, Herbe à Café
Chicory extract is the only natural remedy known to maintain the balance of hunger and satiety hormones (ghrelin and leptin), thus explaining the miraculous dietary effect and the positive impact on yo-yo effect. Treasured mostly as a remedy for weight problems due to its appetite and metabolism regulation properties, Chicory has also important healing powers.
Active principles contained in this medicinal plant reduce the negative cholesterol (LDL) and a 4 week cure with chicory extract decreases the triglyceride levels by 15%. Chicory is also used as a hepatic protective and in gallbladder disorders. While stimulating the bile production, Chicory can be unsafe for people with gallstones, so that medical advice is highly recommended.
Studies performed in Belgium, USA and Japan revealed the complex effects of Chicory intake, concluding that it inhibits the development of Candida Albicans, responsible for digestive and vaginal candidiasis. The recommended treatment lasts 1-2 months and consists in administering 4-6 pills of chicory extract per day, taken with probiotic yoghurt.
Research on cancer show that Chicory decreases the risk of colon cancer occurrence (Spain, 2002), while for patients with the disease already installed, it reduces the tumor growth, preventing the metastasis.
Cultivated in Europe as a coffee substitute, Chicory is an excellent aperitif, banishing physical and nervous fatigue and at the same time preventing indigestion and rapid heartbeat.
The plant has no toxic chemicals and secondary effects such as bradycardia may appear only for an intake of over 100 g Chicory per day.
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