
AKA: Cichorium intybus L. Family; Compositae/Asteraceae (Daisy family), blue daisy, blue dandelion, blue sailors, blue weed, bunk, coffee weed, cornflower, hendibeh, horseweed, ragged sailors, succory, wild bachelor's buttons, and wild endive.

Propagation/Description: Chicory thrives in full sun, fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil. It confidently reaches heights of 2–4 ft, starting as a rosette of irregularly-toothed leaves. As the season progresses, leafless stems proudly appear, adorned with sky-blue daisy-like flowers that gracefully open each morning and delicately close around noon. To ensure optimal growth, plant the seeds ¼ inch deep and thin out the plants when they boast 3-4 true leaves.

Folklore/History: Countless fairy tales and legends have been inspired by the enduring image of Chicory, portraying it as the enchanting young maiden who chooses to remain a delicate flower by the wayside rather than forsake her beloved off to the Crusades in Jerusalem. In ancient times preceding the Celts, Chicory held a sacred status as a revered plant symbolizing the vegetation goddess, the cherished daughter of Mother Earth, whose celestial spouse was the sun god. Admired for her azure gaze, Chicory perpetually sought her beloved's return. The Egyptians cultivated Chicory for its medicinal properties, as a coffee alternative, and as a nutritious vegetable, occasionally feeding it to animals. The Greeks and Romans savored Chicory leaves in their salads, with the Roman poet Horas being among the earliest to extol its virtues as a vegetable in 65–8 BC. In 1766, Frederick the Great of Prussia prohibited coffee imports, leading to Chicory's rise as a coffee substitute in Berlin and Brunswick. According to Pliny (23-79 CE), a concoction of chicory juice, Rose Oil, and vinegar was believed to alleviate headaches.

Medicinal Benefits of Chicory: Chicory is renowned for its effectiveness in addressing gastrointestinal issues, but its medicinal properties extend beyond that scope. Notably, chicory is beneficial for liver health due to its hepatoprotective effects. The flavonoid compounds present in chicory offer antioxidant properties that support the well-being of the liver. Additionally, chicory is utilized in the treatment of liver disorders, including addressing an enlarged liver and safeguarding against alcohol-induced liver damage. Furthermore, chicory shows promise in alleviating anxiety, reducing inflammation, and modestly lowering blood sugar levels. Research suggests that chicory may possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, diuretic, and immunomodulatory characteristics, along with demonstrating anticancer effects on various cell lines such as breast, prostate, melanoma, and renal adenocarcinoma. Moreover, chicory seeds and roots aid in eliminating intestinal worms and parasites, exhibiting antibacterial, antifungal, and hepatoprotective properties, among numerous other therapeutic applications.

Spiritual: Embrace the powerful symbolism of chicory! This incredible plant represents perseverance and the ability to wait endlessly. Not only that, but it's also known for promoting frugality, clearing blocked paths, and enhancing communication with ancestors. By anointing yourself with chicory oil, you can attract positive individuals who will shower you with favors, bring success your way, and make you feel invincible. Keep chicory close to you to amplify your sense of frugality and attract abundance into your life!

Summary: So, picture this: my Cajun dad, who had a love-hate relationship with chicory coffee. He'd rather have Folders or Hills Bro, but chicory wasn't just a coffee substitute back in the day. Oh no, it's like this magical ingredient that's all about physical health, spirituality, and basically being an all-around awesome companion. Its bitter taste is like a reminder that good things come to those who wait, just like waiting for the caffeine to kick in after a sip of chicory coffee. Patience is bitter, but the end result is oh so sweet!
Bibliography:
The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies, The Healing Power of Plant Medicine by Dr. Nicole Apelian, PH.D & Claude Davis, Pgs. 62-63.
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments by Andrew Chevallier, TNIMH, Pgs. 189-190.
Plant Witchery by Juliet Diaz, Pgs. 122-123.
Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs by Scott Cunningham, Pg. 81.
Flowerpaedia, 1000 Flowers and Their Meanings by Cheralyn Darcey, Pgs. 53, 59, 74, 82, 91-92, 97, 102, 121-122, 140, 145, 166.
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