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What is Psyllium?
Psyllium (also known as Ispaghula) is the name that is often used to
describe a plant called Plantago. The outer shell of the seeds from this
plant (called the husk) is often ground to extract a clear, glue-like
substance called mucilage. It is this mucilage that contains a
high-level of soluble fiber and other beneficial components which are
often used to treat a variety of ailments.
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What are the Benefits of Psyllium?
Studies have found that Psyllium is beneficial in the treatment of a
variety of health conditions. In fact, the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) has even approved advertisers and food packagers
from stating that Psyllium is an effective ingredient to lower
cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Many people have also
found Psyllium to be effective when treating:
Bleeding hemorrhoids
Boils
Bronchitis
Colon cancer
Crohn's Disease
Dysentery
Gallstones
High blood pressure
Incontinence
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Poison ivy rash
Psoriasis
Stings and insect bites
Ulcers
Uses of Psyllium
Constipation
Psyllium is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter constipation
products, since it is a high source of fiber and it acts as a
bulk-forming laxative. In other words, it helps increase the volume of
fecal matter, which stimulates a reflex contraction of the bowel walls
that helps the stool pass smoothly.
For mild constipation, a recommendation is to take 1 teaspoon of
psyllium in a glass of juice, warm water, or milk three times a day. For
moderate to severe constipation, use 2 teaspoons (instead of one). It is
recommended to drink the mixture immediately before it thickens up and
becomes harder to swallow. It is also very important to drink an
additional 8 ounce glass of water immediately afterwards, as well as
another 6 to 8 glasses of water throughout the remainder of the day.
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Diabetes
Studies suggest that the various constituents of psyllium (such as
soluble fibers, linoleic acid, and alkaloids) can help lower blood sugar
levels. Therefore, a simple remedy to treat Diabetes is to take 1
tablespoon of Psyllium mixed into a glass of water or apple juice twice
per day. It is also important to drink plenty of water throughout the
day.
Diarrhea
Psyllium's properties help to soak up a significant amount of excess
water in the digestive tract and make stool firmer. Therefore, it is an
effective natural remedy for diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
and inflammatory bowel disease. Simply take 1-2 tbsp (5-10 grams) of
Psyllium husk 2-3 times daily until bowel movements are normal.
Hemorrhoids
Since Psyllium is known to help soften stool, it is an effective way to
reduce the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Take 1
teaspoon of psyllium husk mixed in a warm glass of water or milk twice
daily. It is recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of fluids throughout the
day when using this Psyllium husk remedy.
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High Cholesterol
Psyllium is well studied as a lipid-lowering agent. The high levels of
soluble fiber and linoleic acid in Psyllium stimulate the production of
cholesterol-lowering bile acids and reduce the amount of cholesterol
absorption by the body. Therefore, a simple remedy for high cholesterol
is to take 1 teaspoon of Psyllium husk 3 times a day. It is recommended
to drink lots of fluids when using this remedy.
Weight Loss
Many dietitians believe that incorporating psyllium and other sources of
fiber into the diet can help people lose weight faster. This is possible
since psyllium can cause a feeling of fullness, which can reduce our
sensation of hunger. Therefore, adding 1 teaspoon of psyllium to a glass
of water or apple juice before each meal may be an effective way to
increase weight loss. Be sure to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water
throughout the day when using this remedy, and combine it with a regular
daily exercise routine.
What are the Side Effects of Psyllium?
It is recommended to talk to your doctor before taking psyllium if you
are currently taking medications for diabetes or cholesterol. Do not
take psyllium if you have swallowing problems, intestinal obstructions,
or have recently undergone bowel surgery.
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Psyllium doesn't have any known side effects if consumed moderately with
plenty of water. However, some people may be allergic to psyllium, so if
you notice any rash, hives, itchiness or swollen skin, stop the use of
Psyllium husk and consult your physician.
If you are taking any other medication, it is recommended to take
Psyllium at least one hour after the medication. This is important since
the thick mucilage formed by psyllium may engulf the medication, which
significantly reduces the medication's effectiveness.
Where and How to Buy Psyllium
Psyllium husk can be purchased at natural health food and bulk food
stores. If you are buying packaged psyllium make sure to choose a
product that does not have added sugar, maltodextrin, or any other types
of artificial sweeteners.
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