Kasani or Chicory is a popular coffee substitute and has a wide variety of nutritional benefits.
Kasani is good for controlling constipation because it increases bowel movements and promotes beneficial bacteria in the gut.
According to Ayurveda, Kasani is used to treat gallstones from the body due to its Pitta balancing property. Drinking 2-3 tablespoons of Kasani juice can control liver disorders associated with cell damage caused by free radicals due to antioxidant properties. Kasani juice can increase your appetite; it can improve your digestive process if you take it regularly. Kasani is also good for bones because it helps absorb calcium and strengthen bones. It helps control osteoarthritis by reducing pain and inflammation due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Kasani provides a mild laxative, increasing bile from the gallbladder for preventing gallstones and also reducing swelling.
Kasani is used to treat various skin ailments and inflammation due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying Kasani powder along with coconut oil will heal the wound. Applying fresh Kasani leaves on the forehead can relieve headaches. Thanks to the global distribution supply chain, different parts of Kasani have been used in traditional medicines around the world.
What are the synonyms of Kasani?
Kasani is known differently in different languages. In English, it's known as Chicory, Succory, Blue sailors, and coffee weed. In Marathi as Kachani. It is known as Chikkari in Malayalam. In Telegu, it's known as Kasini or Kasini-vittuli. In Kannada, it's known as Chikory. I Urdu as Kasni, Tukme-e-kasni, or barg-e-kasni. In Gujarati as Kashi, Kaasni, Kssni, and Hinduba and Tamil as Kasinivirai and Kashni.
What is the origin of Kasani?
Kasani, an Ayurvedic medicine, is a plant-based herb Benefits of Kasani.
What are the benefits of Kasani for liver disease?
According to modern science, Kasani (Chicory) is beneficial in treating liver damage. It lowers the levels of elevated liver enzymes and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces the damage to the liver cells. Esculetin and cichotyboside in Chicory have a hepatoprotective effect. It is also used to treat jaundice.
As per Ayurvedic View, Kasani (Chicory) is a liver tonic plant to treat liver ailments such as enlargement of the liver, jaundice, and fatty liver. It works by balancing the Pitta. Kasani improves metabolism by improving the digestive fire, a major site for metabolic activity in the body. This is due to its Ushna (hot) potency.
Tips:
1. Drink 2-3 tablespoons of Kasani juice.
2. Take the same amount of water on an empty stomach to treat symptoms of liver damage.
What are the benefits of Kasani for constipation?
As per modern science, Kasani (Chicory) is beneficial in controlling constipation. Chicory insulin increases the number of bacteria count in the stool. It improves digestion and facilitates bowel movements.
According to Ayurveda, Kasani (Chicory) helps in controlling constipation when consumed regularly. This is because it promotes digestive fire and helps food be easily digested due to Ushna (hot) property. This adds more amount to the stool and helps to expel the stool easily.
Tips:
1. Drink 2-3 tablespoons of Kasani juice.
2. Add the same amount of water to control constipation and take on an empty stomach.
What are the benefits of Kasani for appetite stimulants?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, it has been found that Chicory helps in managing the loss of appetite.
As per Ayurveda, Chicory helps in improving appetite when it is part of the daily diet. In Ayurveda, loss of appetite is called indigestion (poor digestion). It is caused by exacerbation of Vata, Kapha, and Pitta dosha, which leads to incomplete digestion. It causes the inadequate secretion of gastric juice in the stomach and reduces appetite. Chicory stimulates digestion and increases appetite. This is due to the Ushna (hot) Laghu (light) properties.
Tips:
1. Drink 2-3 tablespoons of Kasani juice.
2. Add the same amount of water to reduce appetite and take on an empty stomach.
How does Kasani help in managing Diarrhea?
As per Ayurveda, Kasani helps rectify stomach pain because it helps in the digestion of food and strengthens the liver, and makes food easier to digest. Kasani is a natural nutrient due to its rechana (laxative) property, which cures chronic constipation and other digestive diseases.
What are the benefits of Kasani for gallstones?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per Modern Science, Kasani (Chicory) is useful for the management of gallstones. Kasani leaf juice helps to expel gallbladder stones from the body.
As per Ayurveda, Kasani reduces the risk of gallbladder damage by controlling Pitta's excessive secretions. This is due to the pita balancing property. It helps the liver to function properly and removes excess bile secretion. Together it reduces the risk of gallstones.
Tips:
1. Drink 2-3 tablespoons of Kasani juice.
2. Take the same amount of water on an empty stomach to reduce the risk of gallstones.
What are the benefits of Kasani for osteoarthritis?
As per modern science, Kasani (Chicory) can be beneficial in the treatment of osteoarthritis. It has good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and reduces pain and inflammation in the joints. This prevents further damage to the joints.
What are the benefits of Kasani for high blood pressure (hypertension)?
Kasani (Chicory) can help in managing high blood pressure.
What are the benefits of Kasani for skin disorders?
As per modern science, Kasani helps in controlling inflammation in the skin. It has good antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents infection and reduces the release of inflammatory mediators.
What are the benefits of Kasani for cancer?
According to modern science, Kasani Juice can help in managing cancer.
How effective is Kasani?
There has been a lack of scientific evidence to prove the efficacy of Kasani to conditions such as Allergic skin, Appetite Stimulant, Constipation, cancer, diarrhea, Gallbladder stones, Hypertension (High blood pressure), Liver Disease, Osteoarthritis, Skin Disorders.
Precautions when using Kasani
Expert advice
As per modern science, it is better to consult your doctor while consuming Kasani if you have gallstones.
Breastfeeding
Since a specific diet is recommended to mothers during this period, it is advisable to avoid or consult a doctor or physician when taking Kasani (Chicory) while breastfeeding.
Other interference
As per Ayurveda, Kasani may have sedative properties. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before starting Kasani when consuming sedatives.
Patients with diabetes
As per modern science, Kasani may lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels when taking Kasani with anti-diabetic drugs.
Pregnancy
Since there are many hormonal changes a female goes through during pregnancy, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or physician before consuming Kazani during pregnancy.
Side effects
As per modern science, the following are the side effects noticed while consuming Kasani: Inflammation.
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Asthma.
• Belching
What should be the recommended dose of Kasani?
1. Kasani juice - 2-3 tablespoons once a day.
2. Kasani Churna - ¼ - ½ teaspoon twice a day.
3. Kasani Ark - 6-10 tablespoons twice a day.
4. Kasani capsule - 1-2 tablets twice a day.
How to use Kasani
1. Kasani Juice
• Take 2–3 tsp of Kasani Juice
• Add the same amount of water and take it a day on an empty stomach.
2. Kasani Churna
• Take ¼ - ½ tsp of Kasani powder.
• Add honey and water and take it twice a day after having lunch and dinner.
3. Kasani capsule
• Take 1-2 capsules of Kasani.
• Swallow with water twice a day for lunch and dinner.
4. Kasani Ark
• Take 6-10 tablespoons Kasani Ark (Chicory Distillate).
• Add the same amount of water to it and eat twice a day before meals and dinner.
Benefits of Kasani
1. Drying of wounds
Kasani (Chicory) helps heal the wound faster, reduce inflammation, and restore the skin's normal structure. Kasani powder combined with Coconut powder with coconut oil is a paste that helps heal quickly and reduce inflammation. This is because of its Ropan (healing) property.
Tips:
a. Take ½ -1 tsp chicory powder or as per your need.
b. Add water or coconut oil and make a paste.
c. Apply to the affected area to allow the wound to heal quickly.
2. Headache
Applying Kasani (Chicory) leaves on the forehead reduces headaches, especially the one that starts on your temples and extends to the center of your head. This is due to the Sita (cold) potency of Kasani. It helps in eliminating Pitta exacerbating factors and reduces headaches.
Tips:
a. Take some leaves of Kasani (Chicory).
b. Crush and make a paste in water.
c. Apply on the forehead or scalp.
d. Leave on for at least 1-2 hours to avoid headaches.
Precautions when using Kasani
Allergy
As per Ayurveda, If you have hypertensive skin, apply Kasani leaf paste with coconut oil or water.
The recommended dosage of consuming Kasani
• Kasani powder: ¼-1 tsp or as needed.
How to use Kasani
Kasani powder
a. Take ¼ -1 tsp of Kasani (Chicory) powder.
b. Make a paste with honey or water.
c. Apply once or twice a day on the affected area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the chemical components of Kasani?
According to modern science, Kasani is also known as Chicory. The main chemical in Kasani is chicoric acid and other phytocompounds such as insulin, coumarins, tannins, monomeric flavonoids, and sesquiterpene lactones. Kasani is a well-known coffee substitute and has various nutritional, immunomodulatory, and therapeutic benefits. Kasani contains nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, soluble fiber, trace elements, and bioactive phenolic compounds.
Q2. Which of these forms of Kasani is available in the market?
As per modern science, Kasani is available in various forms as
• Capsule
• Juice
• Ark
• Powder
These products are available under various brands like Swadeshi Organic, Hamdard, Dehlvi Naturals, and Axiom Ayurveda. You can choose the product and brand according to your taste and requirement.
Q3. What is the shelf life of Kasani Powder?
As per modern science, the shelf life of Kasani Powder is about six months. It is better to store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q4. How to make Kasani (Chicory) coffee?
According to modern science (Kasani), coffee can be made through the following steps;
a. Take some chicory roots and wash them properly.
b. Cut the roots into small pieces (around an inch)
c. Place the cutting pieces on a baking tray and bake at 350 degrees.
d. Remove the tray, and let cool.
e. Grind the roasted pieces and mix in the ground coffee. The ratio should be 1: 2 or 2: 3 ratio of Chicory to coffee.
f. Boil water, add two teaspoons of chicory powder, and cook for 10-15 minutes.
g. Pour it into the cup, and the coffee is ready for consumption.
Q5. Can Kasani be used in case of preventing malaria?
As per modern science, Yes, Kasani can be used in the case of malaria. Lactose and lactucopicrin in Kazan have anti-malarial actions. These inhibit the growth of malarial parasites.
Q6. Can Kasani be used for treating diabetes?
As per modern science, Yes, Kasani is used for managing diabetes. Kasani improves insulin sensitivity. It helps in lowering the blood glucose level. The caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, and chicoric acid in Kasani have good anti-diabetic properties leading to an Improvement in glucose uptake in cells and tissues. They also stimulate the secretion of insulin from the pancreas. Kasani also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This reduces the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.
Q7. Is Kasani good for bones?
As per modern science, Kasani is good for bones. It helps in absorbing calcium and strengthens bones. This reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Q8. Can Kasani produce gas?
As per Ayurveda, No, Kasani does not produce gas. It improves the digestive fire and reduces gas formation due to Ushna (hot) nature.
Q9. Can we use Kasani for kidney-related diseases?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, Yes, Kasani can be used for kidney-related diseases like Kidney Stones. It reduces the formation of crystals by blocking the binding of calcium and increasing urine production due to diuretic properties, helping to remove crystals. It protects kidney cells from damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant properties.
As per Ayurveda, Yes, Kasani can be used in some kidney-related diseases like kidney stones, urinary retention, or urine burning sensation. An imbalance of Kapha causes kidney disease, and Vata dosha can sometimes lead to the formation or accumulation of toxins in the body. Due to its Mutral (diuretic) properties, Kasani helps increase urine production, treat kidney problems, and eliminate toxins from the body.
Q10. What are the benefits of Chicory (Kasani) coffee?
As per scientific view, Kasani (Chicory) Coffee is very good for health. Chicory coffee made from Kasani roots has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can be used to control infections. Its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties can help control liver-related diseases such as jaundice and fatty liver disease. Kasani coffee can also help control diabetes because it increases insulin secretion and lowers blood glucose levels.
Q11. Is it beneficial to use Kasani in cough syrups?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
Although there is not enough scientific evidence to justify Kasani's role in cough syrup, it can also help manage coughs.
As per Ayurveda, Cough is usually caused by an imbalance of Kapha dosha, which forms mucus and accumulates in the airways. When used as an ingredient in cough syrups, Kasani helps control cough due to its Kapha balancing property. It contains Ushna (hot) property, which helps to reduce and eliminate coughing from the airways.
Q12. Does Kasani help with weight loss?
As per Ayurveda, weight gain is caused by poor or weak digestion. This leads to the formation and accumulation of toxins in Ama (toxins are left in the body due to incomplete digestion). Due to its Ushna (hot) nature and Pachak (digestive) properties, Kasani helps in weight control by improving metabolism and digestion.
Tips
a. Take ¼- ½ tsp of Kasani powder
b. Add honey or water to it.
c. Consume it twice a day after having lunch and dinner.
Q13. Can Kasani boost immunity?
According to modern science, Yes, Kasani enhances immunity by having certain components that have antioxidant properties. The antioxidants in Kasani fight free radicals and prevent cell damage. It helps in stimulating the immune system and boosts immunity.
Q14. Does Kasani benefits in treating jaundice?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, Yes, Kasani can help treat jaundice (liver disease) because of its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. It protects liver cells from damage caused by free radicals and helps maintain the level of bilirubin required for normal liver function.
According to Ayurveda, Jaundice is caused by an imbalance of the Pitta dosha, which leads to indigestion and internal weakness. Kasani helps control jaundice and improves digestion due to its biliary balance and Ushna (hot) properties. It gives internal strength to the body due to the property of Balya (strength provider).
Q15. Is Chicory good for teeth?
As per modern science, Yes, Chicory is good for teeth. It prevents the growth of oral pathogens. This prevents the formation of bacterial biofilm on the teeth and reduces the risk of dental cavities. In the case of recurrent disease, it reduces pain and inflammation.
Q16. Does Chicory play a role in wound healing?
According to modern science, Yes, Chicory plays a role in wound healing. Chicory contains β-sitosterol, which has good antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents infection of the wound and helps in the formation of collagen protein, thus promoting wound healing.
Q17. Does Kasani irritate the skin?
As per Ayurveda, Kasani does not irritate the skin. However, for hypertensive skin, apply a paste of Kasani leaves mixed with oil or water.
Q18. Does Kasani help with eye diseases?
Modern Science
Ayurveda
As per modern science, Yes, Kasani can help with some eye diseases such as eye inflammation, allergies, and infections. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties that help control inflammation. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties and is used in bacterial and fungal infections.
As per Ayurveda, Pain or irritation is usually caused by unbalanced Pitta Dosha. Kasani helps to deal with eye problems symptoms and gives relief due to the Pitta balancing property.
