Digestive Support
Chicory can directly support your digestive system in a few ways. Firstly, chicory root boosts bile flow, which aids digestion. Extra bile helps break down fats, making chicory root beneficial for optimizing blood composition. This can be particularly helpful for those aiming for optimal liver and gallbladder health.
Additionally, organic chicory root is rich in inulin, a soluble fiber that nourishes the digestive flora in your intestines. While many plants contain inulin, chicory root has the highest concentration. Feeding the healthy flora in your intestines enhances digestion. Moreover, since inulin is not digestible, it doesn’t raise glucose levels, which can help maintain optimal blood sugar levels. It also increases stool bulk and consistency, aiding in efficient toxin elimination.
Antioxidant Activity
Many herbs are packed with antioxidants, often in the form of phenolic compounds. Chicory is a rich source of these phenolics, which are known for their protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Chicory coffee, in particular, has been studied for its resistance to redness due to its phenolic and caffeic acid content. Adding chicory root to the diet of lab rats significantly increased their blood antioxidant levels. Researchers attribute these benefits to the polyphenolic (antioxidant) compounds found in chicory.
Against Harmful Organisms
Chicory root extract has shown potent activity against harmful organisms, sparking interest in its potential uses. An Italian study found that chicory root extract has fungal cleansing properties in certain situations. Additionally, chicory root is toxic to strains of Salmonella in high amounts, and a 28-day rat study found no side effects from large servings of chicory root extract.
Relation to the Liver
Beyond its antioxidant benefits, chicory root also supports liver function. Research from the Zoology Department at Mansoura University in Egypt suggests that chicory may help reduce oxidative stress and liver injury in some cases. I have included chicory root in Liver Health, my 100% all-natural formula designed to support the liver and gallbladder’s detoxification processes.
Have you tried supplementing with chicory root? Please share your experiences and the benefits you’ve noticed!
