Handbook of Energy Crops. Description Germplasm Distribution Ecology Cultivation Harvesting Yields and Economics Energy Biotic Factors References Uses Chicory, cultivated since ancient times for its leaves, is used for salads. Root-chicory, established in Europe during, the Napoleanic blockade, is cultivated for roots used as a coffee substitute. When blended with ground coffee, they enhance the flavor and aroma of the brew. Folk Medicine Cultivated plant in India is used as a tonic, and in diarrhea, enlargement of the spleen, fever and vomiting.
Wild form is considered alexiteric, emmenagogue and tonic.
The juice is said to be a folk remedy for cancer of the uterus and for tumors. The powdered seed is said to remedy indurations of the spleen. The leaf, boiled with honey for a gargle is said to cure cancer of the mouth. It is especially important as source of levulose. Roots are used in seasoning soups, sauces and gravies, and to impart a rich deep color.