The woody, herbaceous plant, Chicory is a perennial herb whose roots are used extensively to make medicines and cure a number of health problems.
But chicory root is found to be more useful in its extracted form as a natural food additive.
Chicory root extract, popularly known as Inulin, is prepared by removing the insoluble component of the plant’s root after the dried and powdered root is mixed with water.
- READ MORE
Health Benefits of Chicory Root Extract
1. Digestion
Chicory root extract, Inulin, is a powerful probiotic. It provides direct functional support to the digestive system.
Chicory root extract feeds healthy digestive flora in the intestines which enhances digestion.
2. Detoxification
Two of the key agents of detoxification in the body are the kidneys and the liver. Chicory root extract amplifies detoxification by stimulating diuresis and bile secretion.
Healthier kidneys and liver lead to a cleaner blood supply in the body.
3. Cholesterol Check
LDL cholesterol, known as “bad” cholesterol often leads to atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and the possibility of heart attacks and strokes.
Chicory root extract reduces the levels of LDL in the body, keeping the heart healthy.
4. Nourishment
Chicory root extract increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the body, which produces nutrients such as Vitamin K and certain B Vitamins.
These nutrients encourage normal, healthy growth and development of the body.
5. Disinfectant
Chicory root extract plays an important role against harmful organisms in the body.
It possesses fungal purifying qualities with absolutely no side effects even from a large consumption.
6. Immune System
The phytochemicals found in chicory root extract perform antioxidant functions, forcing out dangerous bacteria from the blood stream, which reduces the possibility of developing various diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
7. Weight Watch
Inulin in chicory root extract reduces the absorption of sugar, which directly and indirectly normalizes blood glucose levels.
It can also be used as a low-carb sugar substitute, as Inulin’s sweetness is about 10% the sweetness of sugar without resulting in increased insulin levels in the body.
8. Gastrointestinal Health
Chicory root extract helps to break down food, hence better digestion and lower chances of an upset stomach.
It also encourages bowel regularity and helps to bulk up stools better.
9. Stress Levels
Chicory root extract has sedative qualities that have been successful in lowering anxiety levels and calming the mind.
It can also be taken as a sleep inducing agent, and is way healthier than all the other dangerously commercial and conventional sleeping pills.
Once the body’s stress level is in check, the possibilities of a heart disease, mental illnesses, hormonal imbalance and premature aging are drastically reduced.
10. Reduce Arthritis Pain
Chicory root extract has traditionally been used in the treatment of arthritis. It contains a significant amount of anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing the pain caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Patients who have been treated with chicory root extract have reported a considerable improvement in the pain associated with their osteoarthritic condition.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, chicory root extract can also be used for muscle pains, aches and joint soreness as a general anti-inflammatory agent.
- READ MORE
