Indications
Cichorium intybus (chicory, known in Unani medicine as Kasni) is a herbal ingredient made from the root, seeds or leaves of the chicory plant. It is traditionally used as a liver tonic, for poor appetite and indigestion, mild constipation, and as a mild water-tablet (diuretic). In herbal combination products it is often included to support blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes. Scientific evidence for these uses is limited, and it must not replace prescribed diabetes treatment.
How It Works
Chicory root is rich in inulin, a type of soluble fibre that feeds friendly gut bacteria (a prebiotic) and slows the absorption of sugar from food. It also contains bitter substances that stimulate appetite and bile flow, and antioxidant compounds that may protect liver cells. These effects are thought to explain its traditional uses.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered Unani practitioner, usually with or after meals with water. If you have diabetes, keep taking your prescribed medicines and check your blood sugar regularly.
Interactions
- It may lower blood sugar further with diabetes medicines such as Metformin, Gliclazide or Insulin; watch for low sugar.
- Its diuretic effect may add to that of water tablets such as Furosemide and may raise blood levels of Lithium.
- Tell your doctor about all herbal products you take.
Contraindications
- Allergy to chicory or plants of the daisy family (such as ragweed, marigold or chrysanthemum).
- Gallstones, unless a doctor approves, because it increases bile flow.
- Medicinal doses in pregnancy.
Side Effects
Chicory is generally safe in food amounts. Possible side effects include wind, bloating, stomach discomfort and loose stools (from the inulin fibre), and skin rash on contact in sensitive people.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of very low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, confusion, fainting), severe stomach pain with yellow skin or eyes, or a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Chicory in normal food amounts is considered safe. Medicinal amounts should be avoided in pregnancy, as traditional sources say it may stimulate menstruation. There is not enough information for breastfeeding; use only if a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- Diabetes and liver disease need regular medical care; do not stop or change prescribed medicines without your doctor.
- Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or a swollen abdomen need a doctor’s check, not only herbal treatment.
- Buy only from trusted, licensed makers.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause bloating, wind, diarrhoea and, in people with diabetes, low blood sugar. Seek medical advice if a large amount is taken.
Therapeutic Class
Unani herbal preparation (hepatoprotective and digestive herb).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.