Stalk chicory ribbed and hard. The leaves on the stem of a plant are different: the lower and upper - lanceolate, and in the middle part of the stem - obovate, entire. Chicory root thickened stem. Flowering plants continues from July to September. Flowers sessile rather large blue, although sometimes there are species with pink or white color of the corolla. Disclosed flowers 4-5 in the morning, ahead of the dawn.
In roots of chicory contains inulin (40%), tannins, vitamin C (15.8 mg%), sugar, choline. In the flowers found glycoside tsikorin. The leaves and seeds detected inulin and milk juice are bitter substances.
For therapeutic purposes, chicory people use a very long time. Harvest all plant parts: roots, buds and grass. Procurement of raw materials is carried out in two terms. Mow the grass during flowering (July-August), and dried in the sun. The roots are dug in autumn. Store the roots in a dry place during the year. The taste of dried raw bitter.
Petrov whip renowned antimicrobial and astringent properties. Of inflorescences and aerial parts prepare a broth or alcohol tincture to treat eczema, boils, acne, and non-healing wounds and ulcers. Wipe or wash the skin ostuzhennym broth. Preparation of infusion: 2 teaspoons of raw materials necessary to pour a glass of boiling water and infuse for 1 hour.
From chicory roots prepare a broth. It has astringent and diuretic properties. It is also used to improve appetite broth, enhancing the function of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used in the treatment of ulcers and duodenal ulcers, gastritis and diseases of the gallbladder and liver.
Treated chicory insomnia and heart disease. Drink it and broth from exhaustion. To do this, 1 teaspoon minced raw pour a glass of boiling water and cook for 15-30 minutes. Ostuzhennoy decoction take 1 tbsp. l. before eating.
Besides chicory used as a coffee substitute. Fried shredded roots and mixed with coffee beans or cereals. Coffee-based drink chicory, of course, can not match the taste of coffee, but far exceeds his healing properties. This drink can be consumed safely for children and the elderly.
It is not recommended to take only chicory people suffering from vascular diseases (varicose veins or hemorrhoids).
Petrov whip can be not only a source of medicinal raw materials, but also just to please the eye with its flowering in the garden. Propagated plant segments rhizomes and seeds. Grows in one place for 15 years.