Psyllium

Species Name: Plantago.

Also known as: Fiberall, Metamucil, Konsyl, Perdiem.

Psyllium is the common name used to describe several different members of the plant genus Plantago.

The seeds of these plants are used commercially to produce mucilage.

The genus Plantago contains over 200 species. P. ovata and P. psyllium are produced commercially in several European countries, the former Soviet Union, Pakistan, and India. You may know of it by common brand names such as Metamucil or Fiberall.

What is Psyllium: Pycnogenol is a natural anti-oxidant which makes it very helpful with many common conditions and diseases. It contains a high source of fiber which makes it great as a healthier alternative to laxatives.

It is a water soluble fiber which is why it is commonly labeled as a laxative. While it can help with bowel symptoms, it is not actually a laxative. It contains soluble fiber which helps bulk up your stool, creating a larger softer stool. This is a quick and easy way to obtain more fiber in your body and remain healthier.

Home remedies using Psyllium:

Benefits of Psyllium:

Why is it good for you? Psyllium is very high in soluble fiber. It can alleviate constipation and is also helpful in conditions such as IBD (Chron’s Disease and Colitis).

Psyllium works as prebiotics which means it helps to heal the inner lining of the inflamed intestines. It can help soothe almost any bowel-related conditions or discomforts. Psyllium is easy to take but best when taken with a lot of water. This makes it work better when digested.

Psyllium is a bulking agent which means it helps bulk the stool and makes it larger but softer and easier to pass. It can help make your more regular and can also substitute harsh stimulant laxatives and aid in constipation.

It also helps people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The great thing about it is that it can be used regularly and you don’t have to worry about it causing problems. If you take enough of it, it can even help lower blood pressure.

Uses of Psyllium:

  • Chronic constipation
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Hiatus hernia
  • Diabetes
  • Regulate the bowels
  • Lower high blood pressure
  • Dietary supplement
  • Take with a full glass of water

Side Effects of Psyllium:

  • Diarrhea
  • Bloating
  • Intestinal gas
  • Flatulence
  • Rumbling sounds
  • Nausea
  • Mild abdominal cramps