Family Name: Asteraceae
Botanical Name(s): Cichorium Intybus
Popular Name(s): Chicory, Endive, Succory
Parts Used: Chicory flowers
Habitat: Cultivated throughout India.
Description: Cichorium Intybus is a bushy perennial herb with blue or lavender flowers. The roots are baked, ground, and used as a coffee substitute and additive in the plant's Mediterranean region of origin, although its use as a coffee additive. It is grown in complete darkness to keep new leaves tender and pale.
Uses: Chicory is taken internally for loss of appetite, jaundice, gallstones, gout, and rheumatism. In addition, the leaves of chicory may also be used as compresses to be applied externally to ease skin inflammations and swellings.