Chicory - A Medicinal Plant with Essential Prebiotics

Dr. Sadia Fatima

Abstract: Cichorium intybus L. is a perennial, glandular herbaceous plant, leaves are lobed. Heads solitary, flowers blue, heads terminal, fruits achenes with a ring of pappus. The roots are fleshy, white 2-3 feet high, very tough. . Common Name is Chicory belonging to the family Asteraceae. Chicory or Kasini, a classical traditional herbal medicine, introduced by Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) 1400 years ago. This wonder herb has myriads of health benefits. It is said to be diuretic, useful in liver, kidney, gall bladder, uterus, spleen and in other internal organ ailments. The plant is helpful in the treatment of Diabetes, Asthma, hepatomegaly, dysmenorrhoea, Jaundice and Leprosy etc. It prevents heartburns, reduces arthritis pains (anti-inflammatory), detoxifies the liver and gallbladder. It has anti-bacterial activity, boosts the immune system, and reduces the chance of heart disease and helps to lose weight.

Keywords: Prebiotics, Hepatomegaly, probiotics, dysmenorrhoea