Chicory Seeds (Tukhm-e-Kasni)

Chicory seeds / Tukhm-e-Kasni / Tukhm-e-Hindaba (ھندبا, تخم کاسنی, چکوری کے بیج) is a Mediterranean herb that has been used as a coffee filler or substitute.

Narrated by Abu Nu-Aim on the authority of Hazrat Abdullah Bin Abbas, that Prophet Muhammad Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam said :

"كُلُوا الهِندَبَاءَ ولا تَنْفُضُوهُ فإنه ليس  يومٌ مِنَ الأيام إلا وقَطَراتٌ من الجَنَّةِ تَقْطُر عليه"

 "Use Hindaba & do not clean it, because everyday, drops from Jannah (paradise) fall on Hindaba's leaves".

[Abu Nu-aim: volume no. 3; page no 435]

"مَن أكَلَ الهِندبَاء، ثم نام عليها لم يَحِلَّ فيهِ سَمٌ ولا سِحرٌ"

"Whoever took Hindaba & then slept, he will not be affected by Sehr (magic) or poison".

[Abu Nu-aim; volume no. 2; page no. 5]

It contains no caffeine and has a chocolate-like flavor. One of the major functions of chicory is to increase the body’s ability to absorb calcium. This mineral is very essential to maintain strong teeth and healthy skeletal system. It is also known as Blue Daisy, Blue Dandelion, Blue Sailors, Blue Weed, Bunk, Coffeeweed, Hendibeh, Horseweed, Ragged Sailors, Succory, Wild Bachelor's Buttons, Wild Endive and Cichorium Intybus.

It helps by maintaining a balance in the hormone level of the body and alleviating the symptoms associated with the condition.

The herb is very important for the proper functioning of the urinary system, as it helps to detoxify and cleanse the urinary tract.

As a mild diuretic, it increases the elimination of fluid from the body, leading to its use as a treatment for rheumatism and gout.

It is used to increase appetite.

It is also used as natural sedative for nervous system.

It is a good source of dietary fiber.

Chicory Side Effects, Contraindications and Warning:

There are no reported side effects for chicory use when taken at recommended dosage by mouth for most adult persons.

It may cause irritation for those who have sensitive skin or with skin allergy.

Taking chicory by mouth in large amounts is unsafe during pregnancy. Chicory might start menstruation and may cause miscarriage or abortion.

Taking large amount of chicory for breast feeding mothers are also discourage since there is no sufficient scientific studies to establish its safe use.