Editing Radicchio (section)

== Toxicity ==
According to folklore, long-term use of chicory as a coffee substitute may damage human retinal tissue, dimming vision over time and other long-term effects. Modern scientific literature contains little evidence to support or refute this claim. Root chicory contains volatile oils similar to those found in plants in the related genus ''[[Tanacetum]]'', which includes [[tansy]], and is likewise effective in eliminating [[intestinal worm]]s. All parts of the plant contain these volatile oils, with most of the toxic components concentrated in the plant's root.<ref>Edible and Medicinal Plants of the West, Gregory L. Tilford, {{ISBN|0-87842-359-1}}</ref>

Studies indicate that ingestion of chicory by farm animals results in a reduction of worm burdens, which has prompted its widespread use as a forage supplement.