Psyllium

Psyllium seeds are harvested from Plantago psyllium and Plantago ovata.

Plantago is a genus of about 200 species of small, shrub like plants commonly called plantains.

The plants are commonly grown in India and Iran.

Its seeds are odourless and tasteless.

They are commonly added to laxatives, herbal cures, and to certain breakfast cereals.

They produce a soluble fibre that promotes bowel regularity.

The fibre is normally broken down in the large bowel. It then becomes a food source for the bacteria that live in the colon. After the phylum is metabolised in the colon, some of it is absorbed and adds some calories to the diet.

Psyllium seeds are oval and are coated with mucilage. This product is different from wheat bran and other fibres in that, it does not cause excessive gas and bloating.

It was used topically to treat skin irritations, poison ivy reactions, insect bites and stings. Its other common names are flea seed and fleawort.

There is no recommended daily allowance. There is no research that has documented the effects of phylum deficiency.

Benefits of Psyllium

Plantago Psyllium is used in common over the counter bulk laxative and fibre supplement products such as Metamucil. Many breakfast cereals contain psyllium

It can be used regularly unlike the harsh stimulant laxatives, which must only be used intermittently. It is rich in soluble fibre.

Psyllium is useful for weight loss, relieving constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhoea, high blood pressure, pain associated with haemorrhoids, hiatus hernia, diverticular disease and other intestinal problems.

It is also effective in lowering cholesterol and controlling diabetes. The phylum seed husks are commonly used in herbal remedies.

Psyllium Side Effects

Its side effects are not common. However, possible side effects may include,