Top Chicory Coffee Blend and Its Benefits

This post contains affiliate links.

Top Chicory Coffee Blend and Its Benefits

For many of us, that first cup of coffee in the morning feels less like a choice and more like a ritual. The warmth, the aroma, and that rich flavor profile do more than just wake us up—it sets the tone for the whole day. But what if I told you that there’s a delicious, healthier, and even historically fascinating coffee substitute that not only satisfies your taste budsbut also supports your gut health, weight control, and even blood sugar levels?

Enter the world of Chicory Coffee, a unique blend of tradition, flavor, and health benefits.

One of the best chicory coffee blends available today is Nutriplus Chicory Coffee—a vegan-sourced coffee grown in India and blended with chicory root. This instant coffee brand doesn’t just mimic regular coffee; it elevates it, offering a nutty flavor, an earthy taste, and potential health benefits that make it a standout choice for coffee loverseverywhere.

So grab your favorite mug, pour some hot water, and let’s dive into the long history, cultural significance, and health perks of the top chicory coffee blend on the market.

 What Exactly Is Chicory Coffee?

Chicory coffee comes from the root of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus), an herbaceous plant from the dandelion family. When the raw chicory root is roasted, ground, and brewed, it creates a beverage with a similar flavor to traditional coffee beans, but with a slightly woody, nutty flavor and lower caffeine intake.

For centuries, people around the world have turned to chicory plants as a caffeine-free alternative—sometimes by choice and sometimes out of necessity, such as during coffee shortages in the Napoleonic Wars, the American Civil War, and even the Great Depression.

 Nutriplus Chicory Coffee: A Modern Favorite

While there are plenty of chicory brands and instant coffee brands out there, Nutriplus Chicory Coffee stands out for its high-quality chicory coffee blend.

Here’s why:

•  Vegan sourced and grown in India

• Blended with chicory root for a rich flavor

• Excellent source of minerals like Magnesium and Zinc

• Packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C & D

• Contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health and weight control

•  Considerably less caffeine than regular coffee

•  Perfect hot, iced, or even as a cold brew

It’s not just a coffee alternative—it’s a unique blend that caters to modern coffee connoisseurs who want something different from their coffee shop menu while still enjoying a familiar comfort.

A Long History of Chicory Coffee

The story of chicory coffee isn’t just about flavor—it’s about survival, culture, and tradition.

Napoleonic Wars & Scarce Coffee Supplies

The main reason chicory coffee gained popularity in France during the Napoleonic wars was the trade blockade that cut off coffee supply from colonies. This French influence birthed the practice of mixing pure chicory with arabica coffee beans to stretch limited resources.

American Civil War & Naval Blockades

In the United States, chicory coffee became a staple during the American Civil War when naval blockades restricted coffee imports. Soldiers and civilians turned to chicory grounds as a coffee substitute, sparking a tradition that still thrives today in New Orleans coffee culture.

New Orleans & the Big Easy

New Orleanians embraced chicory coffee so deeply that it became a New Orleans staple. Blends like French Market Coffee, Community Coffee, and the world-famous Café du Monde Coffee still proudly serve New Orleans-style chicory coffee—often au lait (coffee with hot milk) to soften its bitter taste and highlight its nutty notes.

Chicory Coffee Around the World

Chicory coffee has made its mark in parts of the world beyond New Orleans and France:

• Ancient Egyptians used chicory plants for their potential health benefits.

• In recent years, health-conscious communities in Europe and America have turned to chicory coffee blend as a coffee alternative with less caffeine and more fiber.

• During world wars, shortages once again made chicory coffee a popular beverage for soldiers and civilians alike.

Its cultural significance lies in the way it has adapted—whether as a necessity during scarce coffee supplies or as a trendy coffee alternative today.

Flavor Profile: What Does Chicory Coffee Taste Like?

If you’re new to chicory coffee, you might wonder: What will it do to my taste buds?

Here’s the flavor profile you can expect:

•  Nutty notes

•  Earthy flavor

•  Slight bitter taste (especially in medium-dark roast)

• A rich flavor that feels close to traditional coffee beans, but with a more unique flavor and less acidity

Many coffee lovers find that it has a similar flavor to coffee but with a deeper, more woody and herbaceous taste. It’s especially delicious brewed in a French press, as a cold brew, or served au lait with steamed milk.

Potential Health Benefits of Chicory Coffee

Chicory coffee isn’t just a popular beverage because of its long history—it also comes with some exciting health benefits:

1. Gut Health Support 
   Thanks to its inulin, a natural prebiotic fiber, chicory coffee feeds the good bacteria in your gut, supporting digestion and long-term gut health.

2. Weight Control 
   Inulin can help you feel fuller for longer, making chicory coffee a natural aid in weight management.

3. Blood Sugar Levels 
   Some studies suggest chicory may improve insulin resistance, helping maintain healthier blood sugar levels.

4. Heart Health 
   Packed with antioxidants, chicory coffee may reduce oxidative stress and lower the risk of heart disease.

5. Reduced Caffeine Intake 
   Since chicory coffee has considerably less caffeine, it’s a great choice for pregnant women, people sensitive to caffeine, or anyone trying to cut back without giving up the ritual of a cup of coffee.

6. Mineral Boost 
   Nutriplus Chicory Coffee contains essential minerals like Magnesium and Zinc, plus Vitamin C & D for added wellness benefits.

 Possible Adverse Side Effects

Of course, no popular beverage is without caution:

• Some people may experience allergic reactions to chicory root coffee, especially those allergic to plants in the dandelion family.

• Overconsumption may cause digestive discomfort due to its prebiotic fiber.

• As with any supplement or coffee alternative, it’s best to enjoy in moderation.

Where to Find Chicory Coffee

If you’re looking to try chicory coffee, you’ll find plenty of options in grocery stores, specialty shops, or online. Classic chicory brands like Café du Monde Coffee, Community Coffee, and French Market Coffee dominate the New Orleans roast scene.

But if you’re after a unique blend that’s vegan, rich in nutrients, and easy to make, Nutriplus Chicory Coffee is one of the best instant coffee brands to start with.

How to Brew & Enjoy Chicory Coffee

One of the great things about chicory coffee is its versatility:

• Hot Cup → Just stir into hot water for a fast, satisfying brew.

• Iced Coffee → Cool it down for a refreshing summer drink.

• Cold Brew → Let it steep overnight for a smooth, less acidic version.

• French Press → Perfect for extracting that deep rich flavor.

• Au Lait → Add steamed milk for a creamy New Orleans-style chicory coffee.

Whether you’re sipping at home, visiting a coffee shop, or brewing at the office, chicory coffee adapts beautifully to your lifestyle.

Chicory Coffee: A Blend of Culture, Flavor, and Health

From the ancient Egyptians to the Great Depression, from French chicory to New Orleans coffee, the history of chicory coffee is as rich as its flavor profile.

Today, blends like Nutriplus Chicory Coffee bring together that long history, a unique blend of tradition and wellness, and the modern desire for healthier, caffeine-free alternatives.

Whether you’re a lifelong coffee lover, a curious coffee connoisseur, or someone simply looking for a new popular beverage to shake up your morning, chicory coffee might just be your next favorite ritual.

So the next time you’re craving that rich flavor of a cup of coffee—why not try something with a story, a tradition, and a whole lot of potential health benefits?

Pour yourself a cup of Nutriplus Chicory Coffee, breathe in the earthy aroma, and enjoy a sip of history in every cup.

What is Bergamot in Earl Grey Tea? and its Benefits

This post contains affiliate links.

What is Bergamot in Earl Grey Tea? And Its Benefits

If you’ve ever sipped on a cup of Earl Grey tea, you know there’s something undeniably different about it compared to your usual cup of black tea. That bright, citrusy aroma and refreshing distinct flavor? That’s all thanks to bergamot—a fragrant citrus fruit that has become the star of one of the world’s most iconic tea blends.

But what exactly is bergamot? Where does it come from? And why has it become so central to traditional Earl Grey and even modern variations like Lady Grey and French Earl Grey? Beyond taste, what about the claimed health benefits of bergamot tea—from heart health to weight loss?

Grab your cup of tea (maybe even a fresh cup of Earl Grey tea) and let’s dive into the history, flavor, and potential health benefits of this pear-shaped citrus fruit that’s made such a splash in the tea world.

A Quick Introduction: What is Bergamot?

Bergamot is a small, pear-shaped citrus fruit—somewhere between the size of an orange and a lime—that thrives in the sun-drenched groves of Southern Italy. In fact, Calabria (a region in southern Italy) produces most of the world’s bergamot supply. The fruit is officially known as Citrus bergamia, and while you probably won’t snack on it like you would a regular orange (its raw taste is pretty sour), its aromatic essential oil and bergamot flavouring are prized worldwide.

Fun fact: the word “bergamot” is believed to have come from “bergamotta,” referencing the Italian town of Bergamo where the oil was first sold.

The fruit’s rind of bergamot orange is where the magic lies. When pressed, it yields pure bergamot oil—a fragrant, uplifting essence that has been used in perfumes, aromatic oils, and, of course, tea.

The History of Earl Grey Tea

To really appreciate bergamot, you need to understand the history of Earl Grey tea. Named after Earl Charles Grey, the second Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s, this classic Earl Grey tea quickly became a household favorite in England.

Legend has it that Lord Grey received a gift of black tea base scented with oil of bergamot from a Chinese tea merchant. Another version ties the blend to the Slavery Abolition Act, suggesting it was created as a diplomatic thank-you gift to Grey for abolishing slavery in the British Empire.

Whatever the true story, one thing is clear: the addition of bergamot oil to a base of black tea leaves created a distinctive flavor that tea lovers couldn’t get enough of. The tea became so popular that the tea company Twiningsbegan selling it commercially. To this day, Twinings markets their high quality Earl Grey with great pride.

Over time, variations appeared:

• Lady Grey – a softer, lighter version of Earl Grey with orange peel and lemon.

• French Earl Grey – infused with florals, adding a delicate floral note to the citrus.

• English Breakfast – not technically an Earl Grey, but often enjoyed by the same tea lovers who crave a full-bodied black tea.

The Distinctive Flavor of Bergamot

So, what makes bergamot stand out? When added to tea, its aroma of bergamot creates a balance of citrus flavor, slight bitterness, and refreshing brightness.

A good cup of Earl Grey tea has a rich flavor, a full body, and a pleasant floral note from the bergamot. It’s not overpowering but distinctive enough to make your taste buds perk up.

However, not all bergamot is the real thing. Some mass-market teas use synthetic bergamot or artificial flavors to mimic the effect. If you want the best flavor, always look for teas made with pure bergamot oil or natural bergamot extract. That’s a good idea if you’re chasing great quality and avoiding the aftertaste of chemical substitutes.

Try my favorite Earl Grey Tea!

Earl Grey vs. a Cup of Coffee

For many people, Earl Grey competes with a cup of coffee as their morning pick-me-up. While coffee has a bolder kick of caffeine, Earl Grey offers a more balanced lift in energy levels. Thanks to the amino acid L-theanine in tea, you’ll often feel calm focus rather than jitters.

And let’s be real: sometimes you just want something lighter, fragrant, and soothing rather than heavy like coffee.

Earl Grey and Herbal Teas

Technically, Earl Grey is not one of the herbal teas since it’s usually made with a black tea base. However, some earl grey blends do include rooibos, chamomile, or green tea for variety. A cup of black tea infused with bergamot offers caffeine, while a green tea base gives a milder kick with added antioxidants.

The Potential Health Benefits of Bergamot Tea

Now for the part everyone is curious about: the claimed health benefits of bergamot tea. While sipping your favorite tea blend is never a substitute for medical advice, there are some fascinating studies suggesting bergamot may be more than just a tasty distinct flavor.

1. Heart Health and Cholesterol

Bergamot contains compounds that may help support heart health. Some studies suggest bergamot extract can reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and improve cholesterol levels overall. This could lower the risk of heart disease.

Drinking a daily cup of Earl Grey tea might not replace medication, but it could be a heart-friendly habit.

2. Blood Pressure and Heart Rate

The aromatic essential oil in bergamot has been linked to relaxation, which may help lower blood pressure and regulate heart rate. Combine that with the calming effect of tea, and you’ve got a soothing ritual for your nervous system.

3. Antioxidants and Free Radicals

Like most teas, Earl Grey is packed with powerful antioxidants. These help fight free radicals, reducing oxidative stress that can damage cells. Less oxidative stress may support a stronger immune system and reduce the risk of chronic conditions.

4. Weight Loss and Energy Levels

Some research suggests bergamot may support weight loss by boosting metabolism and balancing energy levels. While it’s no magic potion, replacing sugary drinks or a heavy cup of coffee with a lighter cup of tea is always a good idea if weight management is your goal.

5. Digestive Aid and Muscle Cramps

A hot cup of black tea infused with bergamot may soothe indigestion and even help with muscle cramps. The aromatic oils in bergamot can have mild relaxing effects on the digestive tract.

6. Mental Health and the Nervous System

The aroma of bergamot is often used in aromatherapy to boost mood. Drinking Earl Grey may have similar benefits, supporting relaxation, lowering stress, and gently stimulating the nervous system.

Side Effects and Things to Keep in Mind

As with all good things, moderation matters. Drinking too much Earl Grey (we’re talking gallons daily, not a couple of cups) can lead to side effects. Excessive bergamot extract may interfere with the absorption of iron or, in rare cases, affect potassium levels, leading to muscle cramps.

Always listen to your body, and if you have medical conditions like high blood pressure, it’s wise to seek medical advice before overloading on any tea.

Loose Leaf Tea vs. Tea Bags

If you’re serious about getting the best flavor, go for loose leaf tea made with organic black tea and pure bergamot oil. Loose leaf tends to have more full body and rich flavor than a standard tea bag, which may rely on artificial flavors.

That said, if convenience is key, a good tea bag from a tea company like Twinings is still a solid option—especially if you’re brewing at work or on the go.

Bergamot Beyond Tea

Here’s a twist: bergamot isn’t just for tea. It’s used in perfumes, essential oils, and even in foods. Ever had a dessert flavored with aromatic oils or even a quirky peanut butter spread infused with bergamot? Yup, people get creative with this fragrant citrus fruit.

Why Tea Lovers Keep Coming Back

At the end of the day, Earl Grey isn’t just about its potential health benefits. It’s about the experience: the aroma of bergamot, the soothing warmth of a cup of black tea, the distinctive flavor that feels both uplifting and comforting.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Earl Grey, the lighter Lady Grey, or floral French Earl Grey, there’s an earl grey blend out there for everyone.

Final Thoughts

So, what is bergamot in Earl Grey tea? It’s the real thing that turns a simple type of tea into an iconic beverage. A pear-shaped citrus fruit from Southern Italy, infused into a base of black tea leaves, gives us a distinctive flavor and a world of potential health benefits.

From supporting heart health and reducing oxidative stress, to helping with weight loss, relaxing the nervous system, and even lowering blood pressure, bergamot is more than just a tasty bergamot flavouring—it’s a small fruit with a big impact.

Next time you sip your cup of Earl Grey tea, remember: you’re not just drinking any tea blend. You’re experiencing history, culture, and a little citrus magic that’s been cherished by tea lovers for centuries.

And if you’ve only ever tried the grocery store tea bag version, consider treating yourself to high quality, loose leaf teawith pure bergamot oil. Your taste buds (and maybe even your immune system) will thank you.

My favorite way to drink Earl Grey contains no caffeine, no sugar and is perfect for relaxation or for sweet dreams. It comes in a convenient tea sachets so you can enjoy it anytime.

Buy your Earl Grey tea here.

So go ahead—brew that cup of tea, inhale the aroma of bergamot, and savor the rich tradition of Earl Grey. Cheers!