Chicory Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Chicory

Chicory

Also known as
  • Cichorium intybus
  • Achicoria
  • Barbe de Capucin
  • Blue Sailors
  • Cheveux de Paysans
  • Chicorée
  • Cichorii Herba
  • Cichorii Radix
  • Common Chicory Root
  • Écoubette
  • Hendibeh
  • Herbe à Café
  • Hinduba
  • Kasani
  • Kasni
  • Racine de Chicorée Commune
  • Succory
Chicory Chicory root is the root of the chicory plant, which is native to Europe and Asia. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the daisy family and has blue, purple, or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. Chicory root is often used as a coffee substitute and in traditional medicine. Chicory root is purported to have diuretic, laxative, and digestive properties and has been traditionally used to treat constipation, indigestion, and liver and gallbladder disorders. Chicory root is also thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and has been used to improve skin health and treat skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Chicory root is a source of inulin (not to be confused with insulin), a type of soluble fiber that is used as a sweetener and to improve digestive health.
There are 84 drugs known to interact with Chicory

Additional Details

Is Chicory Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Chicory is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts commonly found in food. The root and extract of chicory have been designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US. However, caution should be exercised when using chicory in medicinal amounts orally or topically. Pregnant women should avoid excessive oral consumption of chicory as it may induce menstruation or potentially cause miscarriage. Limited information is available about the long-term safety of chicory use, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it for extended periods.

How Does Chicory Work? What is its Mechanism of Action?

Chicory contains various active compounds, including inulin, vitmains, minerals, fat, mannitol, latex, sesquiterpene lactones, and phenolic compounds. The root, dried parts above ground, and seeds of chicory are used for their potential health benefits. The mechanisms of action of chicory are multifaceted and not fully understood. Some known effects reported in animal and in vitro studies include analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal effects. However, further research is necessary to fully elucidate the specific mechanisms by which chicory exerts these effects.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of chicory have not been extensively studied. Detailed information regarding the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the active compounds in chicory is currently limited. Further research is needed in this area to enhance our understanding of the pharmacokinetics of chicory.

Interaction Overview

Chicory may interact moderately with antidiabetes drugs and other supplements with hypoglycemic effects. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels and consult with a healthcare professional if using chicory along with antidiabetes medications or any hypoglycemic supplements. There are no significant reported interactions with other drugs or health conditions.

Common Side Effects to Watch For

Chicory is generally well tolerated when consumed orally. Some individuals may experience abdominal pain, belching, bloating, and flatulence. However, adverse effects associated with chicory are usually mild and transient. Topical applications of fresh chicory may result in minimal dermatologic reactions like itching, inflammation, and redness.

Are Chicory Supplements Standardized?

There is limited information available about the standardization of chicory supplements. Further research is required to establish standardized formulations for chicory products. It is recommended to choose reputable brands that follow quality control practices to ensure the consistency, purity, and potency of their chicory supplements.

What Is Chicory Typically Used For?

Chicory has varied traditional uses including as an adjuvant for specific conditions such as breast cancer-related hot flashes, constipation, diabetes, dyspepsia, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, neonatal jaundice, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), osteoarthritis, and wound healing. However, the scientific evidence for its effectiveness in most of these uses is currently insufficient and requires further investigation. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advised for guidance on the appropriate use of chicory and to explore other treatment options.

Drugs that interact with Chicory

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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