Abstract
Kasni (Cichorium intybus L.) or Chicory is a perennial herb of the dandelion family, (Asteraceae), usually with bright blue flowers, rarely white or pink which is used widely in Unani System of Medicine. It is an erect and procumbent herb that attains about 40-80cm hight. There are two main varieties of Kasni one issweet and second is wild. The most popular variety of Kasni used for medicinal purposes is Cichorium intybus L. Different parts of the herb are used for medicinal purposes like leaves, seeds and root. It is well known for the resolvent action of internal organs and especially for its hepatoprotective and nephroprotective properties, regarding the hepatoprotective activity, chicory extract reduces the levels of hepatic enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. It contains dietary fiber Inulin which is useful in treating diabetes and constipation. Besides inulin it contains other chemical constituents like sesquiterpene lactones, coumarins, citric and tartaric acids, lactic, acetic, palmitic, pyruvic acid etc. Its leaves contain vitamin B2 and C, root contains series of glucofructosans. The main actions which are attributed to chicory are deobstruent, diuretic, blood purifier, antipyretic and antiinflammatory as mentioned in Unani medicine. It is recommended in the treatment of jaundice, gastritis, ascites, arthritis, asthma and many other disorders, either alone or in compound form. This review gives knowledge on distribution, morphology, phytochemistry and pharmacological aspects along with its therapeutic uses in perspective of Unani System of Medicine.
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