Chicory has been grown along the Nile River for thousands of years and believed to be used by Egyptians for treating heart diseases. The root of chicory is used for blending with coffee, it adds body, aroma, color and mellowness to coffee.
Though chicory has a variety of uses, it's best known for its association with coffee. Chicory root is used for preparing a tasty natural healthy beverage. One way or another, chicory is an excellent source of natural nutrients, including phosphorus, calcium, iron, potassium, as well as niacin, inulin, vitamins A, C and other useful microelements. Chicory root tea is totally caffeine-free, therefore using ground roasted chicory root instead of coffee beans is a solution for those who have personal sensitivity to caffeinated drinks. In addition, chicory root tea can be used to reduce the risks of kidney stones, jaundice and other liver diseases. Chicory benefits also include anti-inflammatory properties of this natural remedy, which can also relieve pains of arthritis and headaches. Being a great source of vitamin A, chicory has positive effects on our vision and the function of our nervous system. The use of chicory as a flavor enhancer and coffee filler can be traced back to as early as 15th century. It gradually became popular in parts of Europe where coffee was a luxurious commodity or couldn't be grown. It finds prominent place in the Roman recipes.