Cichorium intybus, commonly known as chicory, is a perennial herbaceous plant with bright blue flowers. It is native to Europe and widely distributed in North America, Asia, and Australia. Traditionally, chicory was used as an herbal medicine, coffee substitute, and vegetable. In Germany, chicory flowers are used as a tonic to treat gastroenteritis, cuts, and bruises.

Phytochemical studies revealed that the major compounds of chicory are hydroxycinnamic acids, including cichoric acid, chlorogenic acids, caftaric acid, and luteolin hexoside. In a recent study, Cichorium intybus root extract in formulation with/without UV filters was tested, and formulation without UV filters decreased TEWL and improved microrelief. Also, its pharmacological benefits, such as anti-microbial, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic, gastroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-oxidant activities, are reported.