Studies on Industrial Importance and Medicinal Value of Chicory Plant (Cichorium intybus L.)

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) belongs to the family Asteraceae and it is a small aromatic biennial or perennial herb. The plant was grown on normal agroclimatic conditions and taken mature root for preparation of various items. The whole plant contains a number of medicinally important compounds such as inulin, esculin, volatile compounds (monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes), coumarins, flavonoids and vitamins. It has also an industrial importance for the production of various food preparations like pure instant chicory powder, chicory powder, agglomerated chicory powder, chicory flour, roasted chicory cubes, chocolate flavor and liquid chicory extract.