What are the benefits of a chicory- based coffee alternative?
Throughout history, chicory has been celebrated for its digestive virtues. From the Ancient Greeks to the Egyptians, it was used to strengthen the heart and digestive tract, to relieve liver ailments (jaundice, colic, biliary stasis), urinary afflictions, hives, eczema, edemas or bruising and fever. The secret is in the fiber in chicory: it has prebiotic characteristics which stimultate the good bacteria in your intestinal flora!
Furthermore, according to long-held beliefs AND recent clinical studies, chicory has a sedative effect which helps relieve sleep disorders, one of the most common side effects of caffeine.
Historical Vignette
From the Ancient Greeks to the Egyptians, chicory was used to strengthen the heart and digestive tract, to relieve liver ailments, urinary ailments, hives, eczema, bruising and fever.
In 1808, Napoleon Bonaparte blockaded the ports of Europe, cutting off the supply of coffee. At that time the enterprising young Dr. Kneipp began commercially packaging a product made by
generations of frugal farmers who would roast chicory root and burn bread.
Mixed with hot water, the result was not only an economical beverage but also a healthier one.
You know that caffeine can create a physical dependence. Too often though, we forget that coffee also makes us "psychologically dependent" by shaping our everyday routine. For many of us, starting off our day on the right foot is unthinkable without a cup of coffee. Furthermore, the caffeine in many foods adds up. Take a look at the caffeine content in selected foods:
