What was once considered the coffee of the poor is now one of the healthiest beverages with the most benefits. We are talking about chicory, which has managed to establish itself as a substitute for black gold: coffee. Several studies have linked excessive coffee consumption to nervous system alterations due to its high caffeine content, which is why other beverages have come into play, stealing the spotlight. Chicory was the most popular alternative to coffee in post-war Europe because it was more economical.
However, today there are studies, such as the one published by The Scientific World Journal, which detail the composition of the chicory root. It is a source of inulin, coumarin, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones (lactucin and lactucopicrin), and tannins, and its roots concentrate a large amount of phytochemicals. It is a low-calorie and rich product in dietary fiber, serving as a healthy substitute for sugar, suitable for consumption by people with diabetes.
Chicory
With the scientific name Cichorium intybus, it is a perennial herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. It is a plant rich in fiber, beneficial in cases of heavy digestion, and also aids in the digestion of fats thanks to bile production. Its root was and still is used to make what is known as chicory coffee, one of the main coffee substitutes.
Chicory Coffee
During the post-war period in Europe, the consumption of this drink was more than common, especially as a coffee substitute because it was cheaper. It is characterized by having a bitter taste, a dark color, and above all, by being caffeine-free. To make it, the plant’s root is harvested, roasted, and ground. The resulting powder is prepared as if it were an infusion, similar to traditional coffee. Nowadays, it can be used to add body and flavor to coffee blends or to be enjoyed on its own.
Benefits of the “poor’s coffee”
A study published in The Scientific World Journal explains the multiple benefits that consuming this product can provide. The chicory root turns out to be rich in:
- Inulin.
- Coumarins.
- Flavonoids.
- Sesquiterpene lactones (lactucin and lactucopicrin).
- Tannins.
The study also showed that the combination of these bio compounds gives it a potential for biological activities:
- Antioxidant.
- Anticancer.
- Anti-inflammatory.
- Antiparasitic.
- Antihepatotoxic.
Additionally, it turns out to be a safe source of alkaloids, vitamins, minerals, and volatile oils.
Chicory Coffee VS. Traditional Coffee
Many studies have shown that excessive coffee consumption can directly affect the digestive nervous system, concentration, rest, sleep, and other aspects of our lives. In addition, there are also symptoms related to excessive coffee intake, such as acidity or even caffeine addiction. The advantage that chicory presents is that it contains no caffeine, meaning it’s like drinking decaffeinated coffee. This is why it has become a coffee substitute beverage that also offers numerous benefits.
How to prepare a cup of chicory coffee?
First, you will need to prepare the ingredients: you only need chicory and water.Preparation method:
- First, heat the water. It is important to know that if you let it boil, the flavor will be excessively bitter. This depends on individual taste.
- Add one or two teaspoons of chicory coffee powder into a cup or glass.
- Add the hot water and stir well.It is recommended to let the infusion rest for a few minutes to achieve a better flavor.
- Since it is powdered “coffee,” it is also advisable to strain it or pass it through a coffee filter to eliminate any residues.
- Ready to drink!